Max Verstappen makes feelings crystal clear after public spat with Mercedes F1 rival George Russell last season

Max Verstappen cleared the air around his verbal war with George Russell as he mentioned that the two drivers would start out "fine" in 2025. He also claimed that they spoke briefly after the 2024 F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

The two drivers got into a prolonged quarrel after the qualifying session of the Qatar Grand Prix where Verstappen was moving slowly, impeding Russell's flying lap. The Red Bull driver qualified for the pole position, and Russell was set to start the race in second place. However, there was a discussion in the stewards' room following which Verstappen was given a one-place grid penalty.

The Dutchman claimed that George Russell was desperate to get him the penalty and mentioned that he had lost respect for him.

The Mercedes driver also claimed that Verstappen told him he would "put your f***ing head in the wall."

The situation between the two drivers escalated, with them sitting apart during the post-season drivers' dinner as well. However, Max Verstappen claims that the tension between them would be reduced and that they will be better off in 2025. He also mentioned that he spoke with Russell after the season's final race at Yas Marina, Abu Dhabi.

"We spoke briefly after the race in Abu Dhabi," Verstappen said via PlanetF1. "That’s okay, we’ll start again next year and that will be fine."

Regardless, Max Verstappen had another successful season as he won his fourth consecutive F1 World Championship. However, this did not come as easy compared to his previous two titles. Red Bull lost their dominance at the top but the 27-year-old kept himself consistent within points.

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Max Verstappen on 'crossing a line' to win the World Championship

Max Verstappen has always been characterized as one of the more ruthless drivers on the current F1 grid. Since his debut, there have been moments when he has made potentially dangerous moves on his competitors. While this earns him positions and points, a negative commentary comes as a side effect.

Despite the criticism he has faced, Verstappen has continued driving, and it has seemingly brought him great success. In an interview after the end of the 2024 season, he said that he is ready to push the limits to win the World Championship.

"I will always go to the limit to get the most out of every race," Verstappen told Viaplay. "If I have to force it, then that’s just how it goes. Sometimes you have to cross a line... I will always do everything to get the maximum result for a championship."

Max Verstappen is prepared to continue with Red Bull in the 2025 season as well. He will be partnered with Liam Lawson as Sergio Perez was replaced recently following his disappointing performances in the last season that dropped the team to third place in the Constructors' Championship.