George Russell and Max Verstappen chat
Mercedes driver George Russell has revealed that Max Verstappen’s long wait for a first shot at the F1 title gives him inspiration that his “time will come” in the future.
Verstappen became the youngest-ever driver to race in F1 in 2015 when he made his debut for Red Bull junior team Toro Rosso at just 17 years, five months and 15 days.
George Russell taking comfort from Max Verstappen’s long F1 wait
After securing a win in his debut race for Red Bull Racing at the 2016 Spanish Grand Prix, the Dutchman’s success was limited to only nine additional victories throughout the next four seasons. This was primarily due to the overwhelming dominance of Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes.
In his seventh full season, Verstappen was given a car that could contend for the World Championship in F1 2021. He successfully toppled Hamilton from his throne and has emerged as the prominent driver of his era, triumphing in 49 out of the last 74 races.
Since joining Williams in 2019, Russell has achieved remarkable success in the junior categories. However, his triumphs have been scarce in Formula 1, with only one victory to his name. This solitary win occurred at the 2022 Sao Paulo Grand Prix, where he spearheaded a one-two finish for Mercedes.
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Speaking to the Mail, Russell has pointed to Verstappen’s extended wait – as well as the longevity of Fernando Alonso, who recently signed a contract extension with Aston Martin to take him into his mid-forties- as reassurance that he still has plenty of time to realise his potential.
He expressed, “What gives me hope is that Max had already completed his seventh season when he first contended for a championship.”
I am currently in my sixth year, aged 26, while Fernando Alonso will turn 43 in July.
Observing his current performance, I find no justification for me not being able to reach my forties, thus I am confident that my moment will eventually arrive.
“I’m not worried at all.”
In recent weeks, Verstappen and Red Bull have encountered their toughest challenge in a while as Lando Norris from McLaren and Charles Leclerc from Ferrari emerged victorious in Miami and Monaco, respectively.
Russell remains confident that, although Mercedes faced challenges during the ground-effect era, they will eventually have the chance to compete for the World Championship.
He expressed his belief that we will have an opportunity.
Max had been frustrated for the first six years, but now it was finally his chance.
“I must persistently work hard and maintain my motivation, as one cannot predict when that opportunity may arise.”
Lando, Charles, and I have been victorious in races, yet none of us have had the opportunity to compete for championships.
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