I’d Love to See Verstappen & Russell Team Up at Mercedes: Button
The 2022 Formula One season has been nothing short of thrilling, with Mercedes struggling to find their footing alongside the dominant Red Bull Racing and Ferrari teams. Amidst the chaos, a potential shake-up could be on the horizon, with former F1 champion Jenson Button expressing his desire to see Max Verstappen, the current Red Bull driver, team up with George Russell at Mercedes.
In an interview with Formula1.com, Button, a two-time F1 world champion, stated that he would love to see Verstappen and Russell join forces at Mercedes. However, he also noted that a team change would be challenging for Verstappen, who is currently enjoying a successful stint with Red Bull.
“If Verstappen goes to Mercedes, it’s a different thing altogether,” Button said. “The car isn’t going to be designed around him. He’s doing well at the moment, he’s in a good team, and he’s got a car that suits him. If he goes to Mercedes, it’s going to be a big change for him.”
Verstappen has been a dominant force in F1, claiming his first world championship in 2021 and currently holding a commanding lead in the 2022 standings. His partnership with Red Bull has been instrumental in the team’s success, with the Dutch driver forming a strong bond with his team-mate, Sergio Pérez.
Meanwhile, Russell has been making a name for himself at Mercedes, impressing with his pace and consistency. The British driver has been vocal about his desire to win races and challenge for the championship, and a pairing with Verstappen could provide the perfect opportunity for him to do so.
A Verstappen-Russell partnership at Mercedes could be a game-changer for the team, bringing together two of the most talented drivers in F1. The duo would likely form a formidable partnership, with Verstappen’s experience and Russell’s youthful energy combining to drive the team forward.
However, as Button noted, a team change would be a significant challenge for Verstappen. Red Bull has been a dominant force in F1, and Verstappen has been instrumental in the team’s success. Leaving the team would require a major adjustment, not only in terms of the car but also in terms of his relationship with his team-mate and the team’s dynamics.
Furthermore, Mercedes would need to make significant changes to their car to accommodate Verstappen’s driving style and needs. The team has struggled to find their footing in recent seasons, and bringing in a driver of Verstappen’s caliber would require a major overhaul of their car and strategy.
Despite the challenges, a Verstappen-Russell partnership at Mercedes would be an exciting prospect for F1 fans. The duo would bring a new level of competition to the team, pushing each other to be their best and driving the team towards success.
In conclusion, while a team change would be a significant challenge for Verstappen, a partnership with Russell at Mercedes could be the perfect opportunity for him to continue his F1 journey. With their combined talents and determination, the duo could drive the team forward and bring a new level of competition to the sport.
