Breaking: George Russell CRITICIZES Max Verstappen’s Conduct in

George Russell Criticizes Max Verstappen’s Conduct in F1, Calls for Better Role Models

Mercedes driver George Russell has sparked controversy after delivering scathing remarks about Max Verstappen’s behavior both on and off the track. In a candid interview, Russell openly criticized the two-time world champion for what he described as years of bullying tactics, lack of respect, and questionable sportsmanship. Russell’s comments have sent shockwaves through the Formula 1 paddock, intensifying the rivalry between Mercedes and Red Bull.

The 2021 season remains a key point of contention for Russell, particularly the controversial Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, where Verstappen won his first world championship in a dramatic final-lap showdown against Lewis Hamilton. According to Russell, Verstappen’s victory that season was “illegal” and undeserved, as he felt Hamilton had maintained a higher level of respect and professionalism throughout the campaign.

“Max illegally won the championship in 2021,” Russell stated bluntly. “Lewis never crossed the line that year; he was always respectful. If Michael Masi had done to Max what he did to Lewis in Abu Dhabi, I think Masi would have had to seriously fear for his life. Max knows no boundaries.”

The infamous 2021 Abu Dhabi race remains one of the most hotly debated events in F1 history. A late safety car and a controversial decision by then-race director Michael Masi to allow only certain lapped cars to un-lap themselves led to Verstappen overtaking Hamilton on the final lap to secure the title. Hamilton, who had dominated the race until that point, lost the chance to secure a record-breaking eighth world championship. Masi’s decision was widely criticized, and it ultimately cost him his role as race director. However, Russell’s remarks have reignited the debate, with his suggestion that Verstappen would have responded differently under similar circumstances.

Russell didn’t stop there. He also questioned Verstappen’s ability to handle adversity, pointing to the Dutchman’s struggles in races where he didn’t have the fastest car. Citing the 2021 Hungarian Grand Prix, where Verstappen collided with Hamilton, Russell implied that Verstappen’s aggression can boil over when he’s under pressure.

“Max doesn’t know how to cope with adversity,” Russell claimed. “As soon as he didn’t have a championship car, he crashed into Lewis Hamilton in Budapest. That’s not the kind of behavior you expect from a world champion.”

The Mercedes driver also revealed insider knowledge about Verstappen’s relationship with his team, hinting at tension within Red Bull Racing. Russell claimed that up to 25% of Verstappen’s engineers had either left or wanted to leave due to his character, suggesting that Verstappen’s temperament has caused friction behind the scenes.

“Max has been bullying everyone for years,” Russell alleged. “Did you know that 25% of his engineers left him or wanted to leave him because of his character?”

Russell’s comments also touched on the impact of role models in motorsport, referencing his own family to illustrate the point. He expressed concern about the influence Verstappen may have on younger viewers, particularly children who look up to Formula 1 drivers as examples of sportsmanship.

“My eight-year-old nephew watches racing,” Russell said. “And I don’t want someone like Max to be a role model for him.”

Russell’s remarks are sure to stoke the flames of what has already been a tense rivalry between Red Bull and Mercedes. The two teams have battled fiercely for dominance in recent seasons, with Hamilton and Verstappen at the center of many on-track incidents and disputes.

Verstappen, known for his aggressive driving style and uncompromising attitude, has divided opinion among fans and fellow drivers. While his talent and skill are undisputed, his behavior in high-pressure situations has often been questioned.

As the 2024 season comes to a close, Russell’s comments will likely fuel further discussions about sportsmanship in Formula 1. With both drivers set to continue competing at the highest level, the rivalry between Mercedes and Red Bull is only expected to intensify, especially as Hamilton prepares to join Ferrari in 2025, leaving Russell as Mercedes’ primary challenger to Verstappen’s dominance.

The F1 community now awaits a response from Verstappen, who is not known for shying away from confrontation, ensuring this latest feud will continue to be a major talking point.