In the wake of the Austrian Grand Prix, speculation about Max Verstappen‘s future in Formula 1 has intensified, with multiple reports confirming that Mercedes has officially approached the four-time world champion. Jenson Button, F1 champion and analyst, has thrown his support behind the idea of Verstappen switching to Mercedes alongside George Russell, emphasizing that this pairing could strengthen the team moving forward.
Amid discussions about Verstappen’s potential move, questions remain over George Russell’s position at Mercedes, as tensions between the two drivers have simmered throughout the past year. Their rivalry, which reignited recently in Barcelona following earlier clashes in Qatar, has raised concerns about the dynamics within the team. Despite this, Button insists Mercedes should focus on securing the most competitive driver lineup possible.
I mean, the best in the world should be able to make that work for him,
Button said on Radio X’s The Chris Moyles Show.
He acknowledged the strength Russell has demonstrated, especially in comparison to former teammate Lewis Hamilton, noting,
It’s a tough one on George, because George is at the top of his game. I think he’s been so competitive. When you see what he did against Lewis [Hamilton] in the last few years, he is world championship material.
Button questioned the logic of replacing Russell with Verstappen, highlighting the young prospect Kimi Antonelli but emphasizing the value of having established competitive drivers on the roster.
Whereas George is there, he is good, and you need two very competitive drivers with this new era of the sport. Next year, obviously lots of regulation changes, car change, engine change. So, for me, George and Max would be a better line-up.
Potential Challenges Facing Verstappen’s Move to Mercedes
Although Verstappen is reportedly being courted by Mercedes, Button noted the Dutchman faces a difficult choice, underscored by the uncertainty of whether success with a new team would match his current performance at Red Bull. Mercedes’ car and strategy have historically not been built around Verstappen’s driving style, adding complexity to any switch.
It’s a tricky one for Max, because he’s in a position where he’s doing so well with Red Bull – they’ve given him so much over the years,
Button said.
He pointed out that Red Bull has designed its car to suit Verstappen’s talents, putting him in a dominant position on the grid. In contrast, the Mercedes vehicle may not provide the same advantages, leading to questions about Verstappen’s potential competitiveness there.
They’re so far off him. I mean, him qualifying third or fourth, and them qualifying 18th. If he goes to Mercedes, it’s a different thing altogether. You know, that car is not going to be designed around him. So, is it going to work for him? I don’t know.
Looking Ahead: What This Could Mean for Mercedes and F1
The possible formation of a Verstappen-Russell partnership signals a significant shift in Mercedes’ strategy as F1 faces major regulatory changes next season, including modifications to car designs and engine performance. Button’s perspective highlights the importance of having two highly competitive drivers to navigate these transitions.
This pairing could intensify the rivalry within the team but also reinforce Mercedes’ position as a championship contender. The unfolding driver transfer saga, along with ongoing team dynamics, will be closely watched as the 2025 season progresses.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How much was George Russell underweight?
A. Russell’s car was 1.5 kg below the weight limit, which might save about half a tenth of a second each lap. This difference is minor. If this is due to tire wear, any advantage only occurs when the tires weigh less. This typically happens during the race’s final laps.
