George Russell sends clear warning to Max Verstappen and reveals what would happen if they were teammates

Mercedes star George Russell has sent Max Verstappen a clear warning amid rumours they could become teammates in the future.

Over the last few months, Verstappen's future has been a hot topic within the Formula 1 paddock after Red Bull's dip in form.

Having won four world titles in a row, the Dutchman's reign looks likely to end this year, with McLaren duo Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris the favourites to win the big prize.

As a result, Verstappen has constantly been linked with a move away from Red Bull, with Mercedes and Aston Martin tipped to be the most likely destinations.

Currently, Mercedes have Russell and youngster Kimi Antonelli as their drivers.

Speaking recently, Russell appeared to send a clear warning to Verstappen over what would happen if they were to become teammates.

The 27-year-old was speaking about Hamilton's dominance before touching on Verstappen's recent success.

He said: "At the end of 2021, Lewis was the hottest property on the grid."

"Nobody thought he could be beaten by a teammate at Mercedes. I came in and performed from the first race.”

Russell continued: "The reputation he had is the same one Max has now. Nobody thinks Max can be beaten. And that’s exactly what people used to think about Lewis back then.”

Max Verstappen and George Russell. Image: Getty

During the Spanish Grand Prix earlier in the month, Verstappen and Russell had a coming together towards the end of the race, which resulted in the Red Bull driver being handed a 10-second penalty, demoting him from P5 to P10.

However, Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff said back in March that signing Verstappen is currently not on the radar.

The Austrian explained: "We need to concentrate on our driver line-up. I don't flirt outside if I'm in a good relationship.

"So at the moment that (a move for Verstappen) is not on any radar. I don't plan to shift my concentration away from these guys and (will) make sure that George has some visibility very soon, or has a contract very soon."

Russell is in the final year of his Mercedes contract and is yet to put pen to paper on a new deal.

F1 will return this weekend with the Canadian Grand Prix, which will be held around the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve.