George Russell expresses a strong desire to compete for the Formula 1 championship against Max Verstappen in the 2026 season, with the Mercedes competitor seen as the top contender for the world title.
Formula 1 is set to implement a fresh set of rules this year, resulting in entirely redesigned vehicles, and due to these extensive modifications, the competitive hierarchy is presently undefined.
Nevertheless, given Mercedes’ overwhelming supremacy after the previous engine regulation overhaul in 2014, securing eight consecutive championships, and their strong performance during last week’s Barcelona test session, Russell is presently considered the leading candidate for his inaugural title this season.
His rivals, however, are anticipated to be formidable, especially from Red Bull’s four-time world champion Verstappen, widely regarded as the premier driver in Formula 1 currently – even though Lando Norris secured the 2025 championship in the superior McLaren MCL39, with the Dutch racer finishing a mere two points shy of the title.
Consequently, Russell expects Verstappen to be a significant contender, notwithstanding uncertainties regarding the Dutchman’s prospects, as Red Bull is introducing its own internally developed power unit, which is not projected to match the Mercedes engine’s potency.
Thus, when questioned about the possibility of a championship showdown during his team’s 2026 vehicle unveiling, the driver with five race victories stated: “I genuinely wish to compete directly against Max and naturally, Lando enjoyed an excellent season last year.
George Russell, Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Team W16, Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing RB21
Photo by: Sam Bagnall / Sutton Images via Getty Images
“However, it didn’t exert any additional strain. I believe fans and observers were likely anticipating a potential rivalry between Mercedes and McLaren, largely due to strong expectations that Mercedes would possess the superior power unit.”
“Yet, it appears that the other engine suppliers have performed commendably, and it’s well-known that Red Bull consistently built an exceptional chassis, even during Mercedes’ period of superiority. Their engine, rather than their vehicle, was the limiting factor, and we are, of course, aware of Max’s formidable skill.”
“Therefore, indeed, I anticipate he will be a strong contender this season, which is excellent. Naturally, one might desire a somewhat less challenging experience, but it ought never to be simple, and to achieve victory, you desire to have earned it through battle and secured it justly on the circuit.”
Russell undeniably shares a substantial past with Verstappen, notably their well-known confrontation at the conclusion of the 2024 season, but the 28-year-old isn’t the sole point of concern for the British driver.
He acknowledges the possibility that Formula 1 might see multiple teams vying for the championship, especially those that placed within the top four in 2025, with Ferrari also displaying encouraging signs last week; Lewis Hamilton recorded the quickest lap during the F1 shakedown in Barcelona.
“The most ideal outcome for the sport, and equally for the competitors, is to have multiple drivers from various teams all contending for victory,” Russell further commented.
Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari
Photo by: Ferrari
“My current assessment suggests that Red Bull, McLaren, Ferrari, and our own team appear to be, shall we say, the four outfits demonstrating significant proximity in performance.”
Russell also brought up a different contender that might join the competition, namely Aston Martin: it now functions as a Honda factory team, guided by the acclaimed designer Adrian Newey, and features two-time F1 titleholder Fernando Alonso.
“One cannot overlook the observed potential from Aston Martin and Adrian’s accomplishments with their vehicle,” remarked the Mercedes racer concerning the team that secured seventh place in 2025.
“Their car appears quite impressive, and Honda has consistently supplied Red Bull with a highly effective power unit over recent years.”
“Consequently, we are also aware of their capabilities; witnessing a major contest would be magnificent. I recall the 2010 season, when McLarens, Fernando, and the Red Bulls were all vying intensely; that embodies the essence of the sport, and that’s what we anticipate this year will offer.”
