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russell still respects verstappen after gp baku

Russell despite 'd**khead' statement Verstappen: 'Still respect him'

4 May 2023 at 20:37
Last update 4 May 2023 at 21:57
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  • GPblog.com

George Russell and Max Verstappen clashed in the sprint race, during the race and afterwards. The Dutchman's RB19 was badly damaged after a touch and an angry Verstappen went to seek redress with the Mercedes driver afterwards. Russell was of the opinion that his rival was acting a little bit and he still has the same opinion a scant week later.

Therefore, the Briton has no plans to change his racing style. "No, I'll continue racing the same way as I always would. I mean, a lot's been said about that coming together but from my side it was pretty straightforward. I went for a move, got the move done and moved on. Obviously, he was pretty upset about it but that's racing and these things happen and we're all here to fight."

Russell on Verstappen's altercation

Russell believes these things happen and that all drivers are at the start to defend their position. "That's what Formula 1 is about," he said. Asked if he spoke to Max during the week to clear the air, he replied: "No. I mean, again, from my side, there's no air to be cleared. I mean, I'll welcome and say hello to him if he passes by, and I'm sure we'll shake hands when we bump into each other. For me, it's history now, and it's behind us."

The 25-year-old driver has not changed his view of Verstappen either, he said in the press conference. "I still respect him. I still think he's a great driver and obviously things are always said in the heat of the moment. But yeah, we move on."