British driver George Russell said it would be ‘exciting’ to partner with Red Bull’s Max Verstappen at Mercedes.
Rumors spread online about a possible move from Verstappen to Mercedes after he met with team principal Toto Wolff during the Bahrain Grand Prix weekend.
The controversy around Red Bull boss Christian Horner and his relationship with Max’s father, Jos Verstappen, also prompted speculation about a possible unhealthy relationship within the team’s walls, which would only contribute to a possible move from the Dutchman.
Speaking with the media at the Saudi Arabian GP, Russell said he would have no issues partnering up with the current World Champion.
“Every team wants to have the best driver line-up,” he said. “Right now, Max is the best driver on the grid. If any team had the chance to sign Max, they 100 percent would be taking it.
“I think the question is more on the other side, on his and Red Bull’s side – there’s so much going on there,” Russell admitted.
“We don’t know what is truly going on behind closed doors and ultimately it’s none of our business right now. But it would be exciting.”
Russell said he he believes he can “beat everyone on the grid,” but that he is “just focused on myself.”
“This is my third season now alongside Lewis [Hamilton], who is the greatest driver of all time. I feel like I’ve done a pretty good job alongside him.
“Whoever was to line up alongside me next year on in the years to come, I would welcome anybody. I welcome a challenge.”