
Russell has stated that “19 out of 20 drivers” agree on the need to change Formula 1’s racing rulesfollowing the controversial battle between Max Verstappen and Lando Norris at the Mexican Grand Prix. As the director of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association, Russell expressed his satisfaction with the punishment given for what he described as “unfair” maneuvers during the race.
After Verstappen received a total of 20 seconds in penalties for two infractions, Russell emphasized the importance of discussions among drivers, stewards, and the FIA regarding current racing regulations. He noted that all but one driver is pleased with the stewards’ willingness to change their approach to penalizing specific incidents immediately, rather than waiting for new regulations to be implemented by 2025.
Russell stated, “I think the stewards completely agree on what needs to change. The biggest discussion was about wanting consistent application throughout the year and not wanting to wait until 2025. However, 19 out of 20 drivers said, ‘If something is wrong, make the change today.’”
He added that he is pleased to see these incidents being penalized and believes that the moves seen in recent races, including those in Brazil, will no longer go unpunished.

Russell explained that while it should be easy to implement changes if everyone agrees, the process often becomes more complicated when it comes to approvals and voting. He emphasized, “As I said, as 19 out of 20 drivers, we all agree on where we should be.”
Regarding his own racing with teammate Lewis Hamilton, Russell described it as a “hard and fair” battle: “It was great to race. Racing with Lewis is always good because it’s hard and fair.”
He also shared his thoughts on the Verstappen-Norris incident, noting that Verstappen’s excessive speed and overtaking maneuver at Turn 7 reminded him of actions he hadn’t seen since Verstappen’s move on Hamilton in the 2021 Brazilian Grand Prix. Russell stated, “Many of the moves you see right now have crossed the line from being entertaining or sporting to almost being unfair.”
He suggested that while the first incident could be seen as 60-40 in terms of fault, he hasn’t witnessed such a situation since the 2021 Brazilian Grand Prix.