George Russell sends Max Verstappen warning amid shock Mercedes move reports

George Russell has sent a stern warning to Max Verstappen amid rumours linking him with a move from Red Bull to Mercedes.

After Lewis Hamilton’s move from Mercedes to Ferrari was confirmed for 2025, all the attention has been focused on who could replace the seven-time Formula 1 world champion.

The likes of Alexander Albon, Carlos Sainz, Fernando Alonso and Oscar Piastri have all been linked with the soon-to-be vacant seat.

Last week, there were rumours that Red Bull superstar Verstappen could make a shock move to Mercedes after his father, Jos, was seen chatting with Toto Wolff.

Meanwhile, Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko has stated that it is ‘expected’ that Mercedes will contact Verstappen to replace Hamilton.

Ahead of this weekend’s Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in Jeddah, Mercedes driver Russell was asked about the Verstappen rumours.

He replied: “If any team had a chance to sign Max they would 100 per cent be taking it. But the question is on his side and Red Bull’s side and we don’t know what is truly going on behind closed doors and it is none of our business, but it would be exciting.”

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The Brit also laid down a challenge for whoever his new teammate could be , Russell added: “This is my third season alongside Lewis, the greatest of all time. I feel as if I have done a pretty good job alongside him.

“Whoever were to line up alongside me, I welcome the challenge. You want to go against the best, but I am focused on myself and I believe I can beat anybody on the grid. Having Lewis as my benchmark has been a good for me.”

Verstappen eased to victory last weekend during the season opener in Bahrain, finishing more than 10 seconds ahead of Red Bull teammate Sergio Perez and Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz.