George Russell pokes fun at Max Verstappen: “Surprised by his post, but the only real boss is Jos”. George Russell comments on his Barcelona clash with Max Verstappen.

The Briton has not discussed the Barcelona incident with the Dutchman, nor does he intend to.

What the Mercedes driver said
A year ago in Canada, George Russell took pole position and fought for victory during the race, which slipped away partly due to two driving mistakes that left the Mercedes driver furious at the end of the 2024 edition.

Cooler temperatures generally help Mercedes, and the British driver hopes to perform again at the same level as last season: “Hopefully we can confirm ourselves, a year ago I started from pole position,” he said on the eve of the Montreal weekend.

Questions about the contact with Max Verstappen in Barcelona were inevitable, and George Russell addressed the topic thoroughly, adding a touch of British humour and playing on the nickname of Max’s father, Jos ‘The Boss’ Verstappen: “I saw Max at the airport, but we didn’t talk. I have to say I was surprised by his social media post, but I have to give him credit — it’s admirable that he took responsibility. In fact, I almost have to thank him for the contact, because he was penalised and I benefited from it. Obviously, if the collision had forced me to retire, I would feel differently. I think he wanted to show who’s boss, but he got it wrong — the only boss is Jos. His potential suspension? It would be deserved, because the points on the licence are there for that reason. If someone drives recklessly repeatedly, then missing a race is the right outcome.”