The 2024 Formula 1 season ended with Max Verstappen securing his fourth consecutive drivers’ championship, defying expectations by delivering consistent performances in what many considered the third-fastest car on the grid. However, not everyone agrees that the Dutchman’s latest triumph was deserved. Mercedes’ George Russell recently voiced his opinion, claiming Verstappen’s victory was less about his brilliance and more about the failures of his rivals.
Russell’s Take: Rivals Gifted Verstappen the Title
Russell, who finished the season behind Verstappen and other frontrunners like McLaren’s Lando Norris and Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, believes the championship was there for the taking—but errors from his competitors ultimately paved the way for Verstappen.
“Arguably, Max shouldn’t have won the championship this year, but the others made a few more errors and didn’t capitalize when they had the chance.”
This remark has added fuel to the ongoing tension between Russell and Verstappen. Despite Russell winning only two races to Verstappen’s nine this season, the Mercedes driver’s critique highlights the key mistakes from Norris and Leclerc, who were seen as Verstappen’s closest challengers during the season.
Norris and Leclerc’s Missed Opportunities
The McLaren MCL38 emerged as the fastest car midway through the season, with Lando Norris dominating qualifying sessions and securing multiple pole positions. However, under race pressure, Norris faltered, often unable to convert strong starts into victories. Similarly, Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc showcased blistering speed but was plagued by strategic missteps and reliability issues.
Russell’s implication is clear: had Norris or Leclerc avoided their respective blunders, Verstappen’s path to the title would have been significantly harder—if not impossible.
Max Verstappen’s Perspective
While Verstappen has yet to respond directly to Russell’s comments, the reigning champion’s record speaks for itself. Nine wins in a season where Red Bull was frequently outpaced by McLaren and Ferrari underscore Verstappen’s ability to maximize every opportunity. His calculated driving and resilience in adverse conditions highlighted his championship pedigree, silencing critics who doubted Red Bull’s competitiveness this year.
Russell’s Journey: Ready for a Title Fight
Russell has positioned himself as a future champion since his arrival at Mercedes. With Lewis Hamilton departing for Ferrari in 2025, Russell will now assume the mantle of team leader. Reflecting on his evolution as a driver, Russell shared his confidence in stepping up to challenge Verstappen and other title contenders:
“I feel absolutely ready to take my journey to the next level and fight for a championship. If we get the opportunity, I’m not going to waste it.”
Despite Mercedes’ struggles in the ground-effect era, Russell is optimistic that the team will make strides in 2025. His readiness to capitalize on any opportunity will be tested in what is shaping up to be a fiercely competitive grid.
2025: A Four-Way Battle Looms
With McLaren, Ferrari, Red Bull, and Mercedes all expected to be in contention, the 2025 season promises one of the tightest title fights in years. Norris, eager to avenge his missed chances, will likely come back stronger, while Leclerc will aim to lead Ferrari to glory alongside the newly arrived Lewis Hamilton. For Russell, the stakes are higher than ever, as he seeks to prove he can lead Mercedes back to the top.
A Controversial Claim or Constructive Criticism?
Russell’s comments have reignited debate about Verstappen’s dominance and the role of rival teams in his success. While some fans and analysts see his remarks as sour grapes, others view them as a valid critique of a season defined by fluctuating fortunes and strategic missteps.
What’s certain is that Russell and Verstappen’s rivalry is heating up, setting the stage for another thrilling chapter in Formula 1 history. The question remains: can Russell and Mercedes rise to the challenge in 2025, or will Verstappen once again prove why he’s one of the sport’s greatest talents?