George Russell gave his take on the recent statements Lando Norris and Max Verstappen gave regarding the 2026 Formula 1cars.
While Verstappen slammed the new F1 cars for being like Formula E on steroids, Norris insisted he is enjoying the challenge, saying the Dutchman can retire if he likes while insisting F1 drivers should not complain about how much money they are being paid to drive.
Russell was asked about his rivals’ arguments on the topic and gave his view from a different perspective.
He said of the new rules: “As with anything in life, you can’t tick every single box. And there’s more at stake.
“When these regulations came into play, there was obviously a huge push on EVs from the EU, and that was a big part for the likes of Audi to come in. So that’s got to be a consideration.
“And I think nobody can argue that Formula 1 is in an amazing place currently. Of course, we want the best cars, the fastest cars, the best racing. But I don’t know how you please everybody.
“As Lando said, we’re privileged to be in this position. And in all honesty, I just want to win. I guess for a driver who’s won quite a bit recently, you do just want to have the best car and the most fun cars to drive.
“So, yeah, [Verstappen is] welcome to go to the Nordschleife, I guess,” the Briton concluded, unable to resist taking a swipe at his on-track nemesis.
Verstappen has always maintained that there is a racing life for him beyond F1, insisting that he needs to enjoy what he is doing.
He is known to be an avid sim racer while also being keen on driving racing cars in other categories. Verstappen won a GT3 race at the Nürburgring from his first attempt in the series driving a Ferrari 296 GT3. (Reporting by Agnes Carlier)