Russell ‘would understand’ if Verstappen leaves F1

George Russell, a British Formula 1 driver, expressed that he could see Max Verstappen deciding to exit the sport this year, given the Dutch racer’s growing frustrations with the new regulations. Verstappen’s lowest finish so far in 2023 is sixth place, and he has cited dissatisfaction with how the cars perform under the updated rules as a reason for reconsidering his future in the series.

Drivers’ Diverging Perspectives

Russell, who has historically had a tense rivalry with Verstappen, acknowledged that Formula 1 values Verstappen’s presence, as his performances bring excitement to races. However, he also noted that Verstappen’s potential departure would be understandable, saying,

“Formula 1 is bigger than any driver, so you wouldn’t want to lose Max, because I think we all enjoy racing against Max.”

He further remarked,

“You’d understand if he stayed and you’d understand if he went.”

Verstappen’s complaints focus on the new power-units, which blend internal combustion and electric energy in a 50-50 ratio. This has created a new layer of complexity, requiring drivers to manage energy more meticulously. Additionally, changes like battery recharge constraints and the introduction of “overtaking” and “boost” modes have altered the traditional dynamics of racing, leading to significant speed differences between vehicles.

Team Performance and Racing Challenges

Russell highlighted that Verstappen’s grievances may stem from his Red Bull team’s lack of competitiveness this season, unlike Mercedes, Ferrari, and McLaren, which have dominated early races. “I didn’t enjoy driving the 2022 car when it was porpoising up and down, killing everybody’s backs,” Russell said, reflecting on the previous year’s challenges. “The car was big, it was heavy. The high-speed corners, it wasn’t very pleasant to drive around.”

He explained that Verstappen’s current concerns differ from those of other top teams, as they are positioned at the front of the grid. “Now, the complaints he has are different to the ones Mercedes, Ferrari, and McLaren have,” Russell noted. “This is only natural, and you do understand and recognize the frustration.”

Future Ambitions and Rule Adjustments

Russell also pointed out that Verstappen’s success—winning four world titles—has likely influenced his thoughts on continuing in F1. “He’s achieved what most drivers dream of, which is winning a championship,” the driver said. “There’s not really much more for him to achieve in Formula 1. He’s ticked all the boxes.”

Verstappen’s interest in sport cars, particularly at the Nurburgring Nordschleife, further illustrates his evolving priorities. Russell admitted,

“I can totally understand why driving the Nordschleife puts a smile on his face. I’ve driven hundreds of laps around it on the simulator. And I would love to have that chance to race around the Nordschleife.”

He added that his own goal remains focused on securing a Formula 1 world championship, suggesting, “If I had four of them under my belt, I’d probably be doing the same.”

Regulatory Talks and Proposed Fixes

As a director of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association, Russell mentioned that these concerns have been part of ongoing discussions with F1 officials. He emphasized that two key issues—flat-out qualifying laps and reduced closing speeds—require attention. “The two headline points are flat-out qualifying, so no lift and coast, and then reducing the closing speeds,” he stated.

Russell also suggested that rule-makers could simplify the current regulations. For instance, he noted that the lower limit for battery recharging at full throttle—referred to as “super-clipping”—is set at 250kw instead of the maximum 350kw. This limitation forces drivers to “lift and coast” more frequently. “The minus 350 kilowatts super-clip is a no-brainer,” Russell argued. “That already in itself is going to avoid a lot of lift and coast.”