Russell tells Verstappen to turn his back on F1 and race on the Nordschleife

10:06, 17 Feb

Updated: 11:38, 17 Feb

byKada Sarkozi

George Russell believes that if Max Verstappen wants to have fun racing, he could easily leave F1 and drive at the Nordschleife.

"I guess for a driver who's won quite a bit recently, you do just want to have the best car and the most fun cars to drive. So yeah, welcome to go to the Nordschleife, I guess."

- George Russell

The Dutchman was critical of the new generation of Formula 1 cars, saying they are like 'Formula E on steroids'. The defending world champion, Lando Norris, noted that drivers are paid so well that they cannot really complain.

Speaking to GPblog, Russell explained: "Yes, absolutely, that's the ultimate goal [to have the best cars], but as with anything in life you can't tick every single box.

"There's more at stake and when these regulations came into play you know there was obviously a huge push on EVs from like the EU and that was a big part for the likes of Audi to come in, so that's got to be a consideration.

George Russell in the W17 - Photo: Race Pictures

"I think nobody can argue that Formula 1 isn't in an amazing place currently, it's almost like a stepping stone. Of course, we want the best cars, the fastest cars. We want to take all of the best racing, but how do you achieve all of those things? And how do you please everybody? I don't know.

"And what we feel in this paddock as racing enthusiasts, maybe, you know, these new Netflix fans feel differently. We all want V10s and V8s and the loud noises. But I think maybe some people in the grandstands quite like to be able to have a conversation while watching the race."

Russell echoes Norris' view

As a result, Russell said he agrees with the McLaren driver, and mentioned going to the Nordschleife as an alternative for Verstappen.

"So, as Lando said, we're privileged to be in this position. And in all honesty, I just want to win. I guess for a driver who's won quite a bit recently, you do just want to have the best car and the most fun cars to drive. So yeah, welcome to go to the Nordschleife, I guess," he concluded.