George Russell says Formula 1 would not want to lose Max Verstappen but admits he would understand if the Dutchman quit the sport this year.
Verstappen has voiced frustration with new power-unit rules that demand heavy battery management, changing the feel of qualifying and racing.
Russell suggested Red Bull’s lack of competitiveness has sharpened Verstappen’s complaints, but noted the four-time champion has “ticked all the boxes” in F1 and may seek fresh challenges such as sportscar racing at the Nürburgring.
Russell, second in the standings behind Mercedes team-mate Kimi Antonelli, added that small regulatory tweaks could ease driver concerns.
“Some small changes around these regulations will have a major improvement for the overall driving experience,” he said.
