George Russell revisits Abu Dhabi 2021: “If roles were reversed, Michael Masi would fear for his life”. Another shot fired by George Russell at Max Verstappen .

George Russell, a torrent of criticism against Max Verstappen
In a 15-minute press conference, George Russell set the Abu Dhabi weekend alight. The Briton did not take kindly to the accusations Max Verstappen made before and after Russell’s one-place penalty in Lusail qualifying (which came after George Russell’s complaint) and especially to the threat the world champion allegedly made towards him (“I’ll smash your f***ing head against the wall”). Now, he has hit back.

According to George Russell, Verstappen often exhibits domineering behavior that is unbecoming of a world champion, who should instead set an example (“Lewis Hamilton is the kind of world champion I aspire to be”). This, he argues, reflects an inability to accept defeat, which affects both his competitors and his own team.

George Russell’s comments
“Hamilton stood up to him in 2021. And Lewis lost that championship unfairly. Can you imagine that scenario reversed, with Max losing the title in such a way? Michael Masi would fear for his life,” Russell stated in remarks recorded by the Italian media on Thursday.

“As I said, in some of the recent incidents, he’s been penalized. And he’s penalized himself. For example, in Mexico or Budapest,” Russell continued. “I believe the FIA is quite aware of this issue. And I don’t think much needs to change from their perspective because he will punish himself, one way or another.”