Max Verstappen has rejected George Russell’s idea of a partnership at the Nürburgring, reminding him of his championship lead – Verstappen has played down the prospect of teaming up with Russell for the Nürburgring 24 Hours, making it clear that the two Formula 1 drivers have very different goals at the moment.
During media duties at the Canadian Grand Prix, the four-time Formula 1 world champion was asked about Russell’s recent comments, in which the Mercedes driver said he would “never say never” regarding a potential endurance racing partnership with Verstappen.
While Russell appeared open to the idea, Verstappen offered a more reserved response that emphasised the differences in their careers and ambitions.
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Verstappen points to different priorities
When asked about Russell’s comments, Verstappen suggested that his circumstances differ significantly from those of the Mercedes driver.
“Yes, but I think I’m in a bit of a different situation, right?” Verstappen told reporters in Montreal.
“I’ve won championships in F1, and of course I’m working on my GT3 project, so I think we’re in different positions.”
This comment reflects Verstappen’s growing involvement in GT3 racing alongside his Formula 1 commitments. The Dutchman has invested considerable time and resources in endurance racing projects, including his high-profile participation in this year’s Nürburgring 24 Hours.
However, his race ended in disappointment. With just over three hours remaining, Verstappen’s #3 entry was forced to retire, having been in contention for victory at the iconic German endurance event.
The Nürburgring effort attracted attention in the paddock
Despite the outcome, Verstappen revealed that his appearance at the Nürburgring generated significant interest among his fellow Formula 1 drivers.
“It’s cool though. A lot of drivers sent me messages and followed it, so I think it’s always nice to see,” he said.
The Nürburgring 24 Hours remains one of motorsport’s most demanding events, combining the legendary Nordschleife with the modern Grand Prix circuit to create a challenge spanning over 25 kilometres per lap. Its reputation continues to attract admiration from drivers across multiple racing disciplines.
Verstappen’s growing GT3 programme has become a notable part of his motorsport activities outside of Formula 1, and he has suggested that he intends to continue developing these interests despite his demanding Grand Prix schedule.
Meanwhile, Russell remains focused on his Formula 1 title ambitions.
Different priorities
Verstappen also acknowledged that Russell’s priorities naturally differ at this stage of his career.
“I think for him, the focus is entirely on Formula 1 at the moment.”
The contrast is understandable. While Verstappen has already won four world championships and is considered one of Formula 1’s most successful drivers, Russell is still chasing his first drivers’ title.
This difference in their respective career positions appears to influence how the two drivers approach opportunities outside of Formula 1. Verstappen has greater freedom to explore projects in endurance racing, whereas Russell’s immediate focus remains on maximising his chances in Grand Prix competition.
Red Bull’s difficult season increases pressure
This discussion comes during an unusually challenging campaign for Red Bull Racing.
After dominating Formula 1 for much of the previous formula rule set, Red Bull has struggled to match the pace of its leading rivals in 2026. The team is currently fourth in the constructors’ standings with 57 points, while Mercedes has a significant lead at the top of the championship.
Verstappen’s position in the drivers’ standings is equally unfamiliar. The Dutchman is in seventh place with 43 points — a scenario that few would have predicted after his run of championship success.
These circumstances make Formula 1 performance even more important as Red Bull searches for answers. While Verstappen continues to pursue his GT3 ambitions, his primary focus remains on helping the Milton Keynes-based team catch up in both championships.
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Clara Marlowe is a Formula 1 writer at TJ13 with over 15 years of experience in motorsport journalism, having contributed features to established sports magazines such as Evo, MCN, Wisden Cricket Monthly and other digital outlets.
Clara specialises in human-interest storytelling, focusing on the individuals behind the sport, including drivers, engineers, and team personnel whose roles are often overlooked in mainstream coverage.
At TJ13, Clara contributes long-form features and narrative-driven pieces that explore the personal and professional journeys within Formula 1. This includes coverage of career-defining moments, internal team dynamics, and the human impact of high-pressure competition.
Clara’s work brings depth and perspective to the sport, complementing news and analysis with stories that highlight the people behind the machinery.
Clara has a particular interest in how personal narratives intersect with performance, and how individual experiences shape outcomes across a Formula 1 season.
