P1racenews AI automatic summary:
George Russell has set out his F1 title aspirations for 2026, and admitted he is keen to go “head-to-head” with Max Verstappen.
George Russell has expressed his Formula 1 title ambitions for 2026, expressing a desire to go head-to-head with Max Verstappen. Russell, named as the potential ‘title favorite’, benefits from Mercedes having the fastest power unit on the grid. He finished fourth in the 2025 Drivers’ Championship and second in the Constructors’, with two wins. His rivalry with Verstappen intensified post their 2024 Qatar GP incident and clashed again in 2025 during the Spanish GP. Despite some close on-track moments, Russell is eager for a title battle with Verstappen without feeling added pressure as the potential favorite due to Mercedes’ power unit prowess. He acknowledges Red Bull’s strong car and Max’s skills, expecting a great fight for the championship.
