Rob Smedley, former Ferrari race engineer and longtime F1 insider, has sparked controversy by recommending Mercedes replace George Russell with Max Verstappen. Speaking on the F1 Nation podcast, Smedley expressed his clear preference for Verstappen, citing the Dutch driver’s unparalleled determination and focus on racing as key factors. The Mercedes seat has become a hot topic amid uncertainty surrounding both drivers’ futures, making this suggestion even more provocative.
George Russell’s contract with Mercedes runs until 2025, but there is still no signed extension, fueling speculation about his standing within the team. Meanwhile, Max Verstappen’s position at Red Bull has also come under question due to declining team performance over the past 18 months. The ongoing uncertainty has raised many questions about where both drivers will end up in the coming seasons.
Smedley, who was part of Ferrari during Michael Schumacher’s era, was blunt in his assessment when asked about the Mercedes seat. He stated,
“I would 100% go for Max Verstappen in place of George Russell.”
He further emphasized Verstappen’s relentless drive to win, saying,
“If there is one thing that stands out about Max, it’s his determination. He just wants to race and nothing else.”
This focus, according to Smedley, gives Verstappen a unique ability to push the team forward effectively.
Despite the turmoil, Max Verstappen appears committed to Red Bull through 2026, while Mercedes seems poised to extend George Russell’s contract. However, Formula 1 is known for unexpected moves, and nothing is set in stone. The possibility of a major shift involving these two top talents remains a source of tension and intrigue as teams strategize for the future.
