Mercedes driver George Russell has openly expressed envy regarding Max Verstappen’s freedom to participate in racing events outside Formula 1. Speaking at the Singapore Grand Prix media day, Russell reflected on Verstappen’s recent GT3 victory at the Nürburgring Nordschleife, highlighting the distinct advantage the four-time world champion enjoys compared to other drivers bound by more restrictive contracts.
Contrasting Opportunities Within the F1 Paddock
Verstappen’s debut success in a demanding four-hour endurance race in a Ferrari 296 GT3 illuminated the divide between him and his Formula 1 peers. While Verstappen can engage in additional racing exploits during F1’s short breaks, many other drivers face contractual and team-imposed limitations that prevent similar pursuits. This disparity has been a growing point of discussion within the racing community.
Russell’s Candid View on Championship-Linked Freedom
When questioned about Verstappen’s extracurricular racing, Russell responded with surprising honesty, revealing the sentiments shared by many in the paddock.
I think we’re all pretty jealous of it, because having this freedom of firstly doing what you love in Formula 1, but then also being able to go out and race other things and just enjoy it at your leisure,
Russell stated.
He further acknowledged why Verstappen holds such liberties, emphasizing the role of championship success in granting career independence.
You have that right when you win four world championships, and we’re all here fighting to win our first,
Russell explained.
He added,
Maybe after four championship under our belts, we’ll be able to choose to do the same.
This remark underscored Russell’s belief that such freedoms are rewards earned through exceptional achievement rather than standard driver privileges.
Admiration Mixed With Frustration Over Verstappen’s Achievements
Russell was clearly impressed by Verstappen’s dominance at the Nordschleife, describing the GT3 victory as “incredible.” His tone reflected both admiration for the feat and an underlying frustration at not being able to compete under similar conditions. Despite this, Russell dismissed concerns about the risks involved in participating in additional racing, stating,
You have to do what you enjoy in life, and there’s a risk in everything,
highlighting that danger is inherent in almost all activities.
His comments suggested a frustration not only with contractual restrictions but also with the perception that competing outside of F1 is excessively dangerous for drivers, a viewpoint that limits their freedom further.
The Deeper Implications for Formula 1 Drivers
Russell’s remarks shed light on a broader reality within modern Formula 1: career autonomy is closely tied to championship success. While Verstappen’s multiple titles grant him opportunities to explore other racing avenues freely, many drivers remain constrained by systems intended to manage risk but which also limit personal racing ambitions.
This dynamic raises questions about how Formula 1 manages driver freedoms and what changes might occur as drivers accumulate more success. Russell’s hope that achieving multiple championships could one day afford him similar liberties hints at potential shifts in the sport’s culture regarding driver engagement outside of F1.
🗣️ "Maybe after four championship under our belts, we'll be able to choose to do the same."
George Russell has 'respect' for Verstappen's extra curricular racing but says it's not as feasible for every F1 driver: pic.twitter.com/QqITokBZq7
— The Race (@wearetherace) October 2, 2025
