With speculation growing stronger about a possible move by Max Verstappen to the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team, debate is heating up over which of the current drivers would need to make room—George Russell or Kimi Antonelli. While rumors surrounding this potential blockbuster transfer continue to alternate between denials and hints of truth, what remains certain is that Mercedes has a serious interest in bringing the Dutch triple World Champion to its Brackley-based outfit.
If such a move were to happen, one of the two current drivers—either experienced British racer George Russell or the promising young Italian prospect Kimi Antonelli—would inevitably have to step aside. The dilemma, however, is far from straightforward.
George Russell, who joined Mercedes in 2022 after impressing with the Williams team, has proven himself to be a consistent and reliable performer. He has delivered strong results despite Mercedes struggling with competitiveness in recent seasons. Although Team Principal Toto Wolff has repeatedly expressed confidence in Russell and has offered verbal assurances regarding his future, there has yet to be an official announcement about a contract extension, raising questions about his long-term place within the team.
On the other hand, Kimi Antonelli, the young talent selected as Lewis Hamilton’s replacement for 2025, remains relatively unproven at the Formula 1 level. While highly rated within the Mercedes driver development program, Antonelli has shown signs of inexperience, with a few youthful mistakes surfacing during his early stages in junior categories this season. At only 18 years of age, he represents the future, but also comes with inherent uncertainty.
Who would have to leave if Verstappen joins Mercedes?
The latest rumors suggest that George Russell could be the one on his way out if Max Verstappen were to accept a Mercedes offer. This speculation is reportedly fueled by a less-than-ideal personal and professional relationship between Russell and Verstappen, as well as Toto Wolff’s desire to continue nurturing Antonelli, who was surprisingly selected to replace seven-time World Champion Lewis Hamilton.
However, not everyone agrees with this approach. In an interview with escapistmagazine.com, former Formula 1 driver Johnny Herbert shared his perspective on the situation unfolding at Mercedes.
According to Herbert, dropping Russell to make room for Verstappen would be a mistake. “It would be unfair to let George go just to sign Max Verstappen,” said the former British driver. “Russell is the one currently delivering the best results for the team, while Antonelli is still understandably in a developmental phase. He is only eighteen years old and needs more time. So far, he hasn’t shown anything particularly outstanding on track. Yes, he has Toto Wolff’s support, but that doesn’t automatically mean it’s right to keep him.”
Herbert went on to argue that Russell and Verstappen could form a formidable driver pairing. “George is at the perfect age to work alongside Max,” he continued. “Together, they could recreate a dynamic similar to that of Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg. Two top-tier drivers capable of pushing each other to the limit, forming one of the most competitive and high-performing duos on the grid.”
As the rumors surrounding Max Verstappen’s possible departure from Red Bull Racing persist, Mercedes faces a complex decision that could significantly shape its future in Formula 1. For now, fans and pundits alike are left speculating whether the Brackley team will favor youthful potential or proven experience in its driver lineup.
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