George Russell Teases Max Verstappen with ‘Penalty Points’ Dig After Taking Pole at Canadian GP

George Russell took a subtle jibe at Max Verstappen race ban threat following pole position at the Canadian GP.

George Russell Teases Max Verstappen with ‘Penalty Points’ Dig After Taking Pole at Canadian GP

George Russell (via Getty), Max Verstappen (via Red Bull)

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George Russell and Max Verstappen have become fierce rivals in Formula 1. The two have been in a war of words since last season, with the Spanish GP collision only making matters worse. Now, Russell has once again taken a jibe at the Dutchman after clinching pole position for the Canadian GP.

The Mercedes driver pulled off a stellar lap in Q3 in Montreal. George Russell surprised the paddock by outperforming Max Verstappen and the two McLarens. Russell and Verstappen used medium tires for their final runs, which was ideal for the track conditions. Now, the Briton will start right ahead of the Red Bull star who finished in second place.

Following the session, George Russell hinted that anything could happen at the start of the race, pointing out that he had room to receive a few more penalty points. In Formula 1, a driver is given a race ban for accumulating 12 penalty points on their super license, with Max Verstappen having 11 after the Spanish GP. Thus, Russell did not only indicate his plans for Sunday, but even took a subtle dig at the reigning world champion.

I have a few more points on my license to play with. So, let’s see.

George Russell said post-session

George Russell delighted with mighty lap after outperforming Max Verstappen

Mercedes has fallen behind the leaders since the start of the ground-effect era of Formula 1. This played a role in Lewis Hamilton’s decision to jump ship to Ferrari earlier this year. Even in 2025, the Silver Arrows have struggled to match Max Verstappen or even the two McLarens. However, Russell’s pole will be a source of motivation for the Brackley-based squad.

George Russell
George Russell (via Motorsport Total)

George Russell asserted that he had an incredible outing in Montreal during Qualifying, with an ecstatic crowd. Moreover, the Mercedes driver insisted that his final lap was likely the most exhilarating lap he had ever done in his career as he managed to outpace Max Verstappen. This is a rather bold claim considering Russell has given some remarkable performances in the past for the Silver Arrows.

Today was awesome, in front of this amazing crowd! To get this pole, that last lap was one of the most exhilarating lap of my life. I knew this lap was mighty.

George Russell added

Certainly, George Russell is confident over his pace after Qualifying. The British driver will leave no stone unturned to convert his pole into a victory on Sunday. Though, things will not be so easy for Russell considering Max Verstappen is on the front row. The Dutch driver is unlikely to change his aggression despite a looming race ban threat. As such, fans can expect things to get rather interesting in the race.

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