Former Haas boss Guenther Steiner has weighed up the potential scenario of Mercedes swapping Russell and Verstappen in light of opposite fortunes for the pair at the start of 2026.

Mercedes' historic interest in Verstappen is well-known, with rumours swirling in 2025 about a move that would have seen Russell make way for the Dutchman's arrival.

But after an excellent start to the 2026 season, which sees Russell already tipped as the Drivers' title favourite, Steiner believes that possible swap is now less than straightforward, with the Italian pointing to a salary gap and Russell's potential as two key sticking points.

On the Red Flags Podcast, Steiner said: "For sure, Max doesn't come for less money than he gets at Red Bull and I think the salary gap between Max and George is still something which has an influence. It's not $5,000, it's a little bit more."

Former Mercedes driver Nico Rosberg has sent Kimi Antonelli a special message following the young Italian's first-ever F1 win at the Chinese GP.

Rosberg, whose first win in F1 also came at the Shanghai International Circuit in 2012, has been a longtime supporter of Antonelli, claiming in the past that the teenager is a 'generational' talent.

Rosberg said: "We've known each other for so many years. Incredible to watch your career progress and to get that win now in F1."

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