George Russell says he's 'not afraid' of Max Verstappen as a teammate amid Mercedes links

George Russell has admitted he would relish the 'challenge' of going head-to-head with Max Verstappen as a teammate in the future. The pair will line up as rivals in Sunday's Brazilian Grand Prix.

Throughout this season, widespread rumours suggested Mercedes had approached Verstappen about a potential switch. Whilst team boss Toto Wolff did hold discussions with the Dutchman, no transfer came to fruition.

Both Russell and Kimi Antonelli have now committed their futures to the Silver Arrows until 2026. Ahead of the Brazilian Grand Prix weekend, Russell has now shed more light on his contract situation.

"For me, it's very simple. I just signed a new contract, and it includes a performance clause," he told Dutch outlet Telegraaf.

"I won't go into all the details, but it basically means that if I perform at a certain level, I'll definitely continue driving for Mercedes. It's a clause that's good for me and for the team. And that's how it should be."

Russell has also clarified his stance on the prospect of Verstappen potentially becoming his Mercedes teammate. The two had a public fall-out at the end of last season.

"I believe I can beat anyone. Max is without a doubt the man to beat," he said.

"Just as it was for Lewis Hamilton in 2021 and the years before. And no one thought anyone could beat Lewis in a Mercedes.

"Just as it is for Max in a Red Bull. Competing against Max as a teammate is a challenge I'd love to take on someday.

"But if you look at the results and our performances this year, I think Max and I have been the most consistent."

When probed about the potential of Verstappen joining Mercedes, Russell once again stood his ground. "Who knows? I don't know how all the arrangements work," he stated.

"That's not up to me. I only care about one thing, and that's winning with Mercedes.

"That's what we're striving for. I've always said I'm not afraid to be teammates with anyone. The statistically best driver of all time [Hamilton] has also been my teammate. So I'm not afraid of Verstappen either, should he end up driving alongside me here.

"Again, I would grab the opportunity to compete against him with both hands."