Max Verstappen and George Russell remain two of the most discussed drivers in Formula 1 due to contract uncertainties and possible team changes. Verstappen, despite having a contract with Red Bull until the end of 2028, is reportedly contemplating his future with the Austrian team. Meanwhile, Russell has yet to finalize a new contract with Mercedes for the upcoming season. The speculation has fueled rumors about a potential Max Verstappen George Russell Red Bull partnership, although former driver Juan Pablo Montoya believes such an alliance is unlikely.
Red Bull’s Struggle to Find a Strong Second Driver
Since 2019, Red Bull has faced challenges securing a second driver capable of matching Verstappen’s performance. The Austrian team has yet to find a stable teammate who can consistently challenge or support their world champion. This year saw Liam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda as candidates, but neither matched Verstappen’s pace. While Tsunoda is expected to continue at Red Bull for the remainder of the current season, his position beyond this remains in question.
Speculation Around George Russell’s Potential Move to Red Bull
Rumors have suggested that Red Bull initiated talks with George Russell about a possible switch for 2026. This move would place Russell alongside Verstappen at Milton Keynes, a partnership widely speculated about in Formula 1 circles. However, their relationship in the paddock has been tense, with both drivers involved in controversies and public disagreements since last season.
Montoya highlighted Russell as one of the most sought-after drivers currently without a contract after this season, pointing out that Red Bull could use this chance to secure a top talent as a backup if Verstappen were to leave. Yet, Montoya was adamant that Russell would not accept a Red Bull seat if Verstappen remained with the team, stating:
“Max technically has a contract, but George is the most wanted driver in the field who currently doesn’t have a contract. So if you look at it that way, Red Bull could come in with a lot of money to cover themselves in case Max leaves. Would he go to Red Bull to work with Max? I would say: absolutely not.”
—Juan Pablo Montoya, former Formula 1 driver
George Russell’s Frustration Throughout His Formula 1 Career
George Russell has been regarded as a rising star in Formula 1 since making his debut with Williams in 2019. Despite showcasing his talent, especially after moving to Mercedes, Russell has yet to secure a legitimate championship challenge. His time at Williams saw him stuck with a struggling team far from race-winning form, and upon joining Mercedes in 2022, he inherited a team no longer competing for titles.
Montoya described Russell’s career trajectory as marked by frustration, suggesting that the British driver has been in a challenging mindset since his F1 entry. He explained:
“George has actually been in a bad mood ever since he entered Formula 1. He joined a team that was used to winning, but just at a time when it wasn’t happening anymore. That was tough for him, but he has developed well and has done a good job so far.”
—Juan Pablo Montoya, former Formula 1 driver
Russell’s ambition to fight for the world championship remains clear, as sporadic race wins have not satisfied his aspirations. This ambition leaves open the possibility that Red Bull could approach him should Verstappen exit the team. For now, however, Russell has not indicated any intention to leave Mercedes and join a rival squad.
The Implications for Formula 1’s Competitive Landscape
The ongoing uncertainty surrounding Verstappen and Russell’s futures influences the F1 driver market substantially. Red Bull’s lack of a dependable second driver continues to be a strategic vulnerability, potentially impacting their dominance in upcoming seasons. Meanwhile, Russell’s potential move could reshape Mercedes’ lineup and shift the competitive dynamics.
Montoya’s clear dismissal of a near-term Verstappen-Russell partnership at Red Bull underlines how personal tensions could hinder what many fans and analysts see as a logical pairing. As contract negotiations and team strategies evolve, the sport looks set for continued drama both on and off the track. The decisions made by Verstappen, Russell, Red Bull, and Mercedes in the coming months will be pivotal in shaping Formula 1’s championship battles in the years ahead.
