“Trying to Get the Refs Involved”: Game Player George Russell Gets Called Out on Shrewd Tactics to Handicap Max Verstappen & Co.

For most, Formula 1 is just a sport. One of the most exciting and popular sports in the world, but still a sport. However, for the entities involved with the sport, F1 is a full-fledged business. Like every business, there is some internal politics that also goes in the world of Formula 1. Mercedes man George Russell engaged in some when he accused Red Bull of sandbagging and “trying to get the refs involved”. His allegations even provoked a logical response from Max Verstappen. Although, despite backtracking on his comments upon revaluation, the Brit is still getting some criticism for it.

Russell’s comments about Red Bull’s sandbagging became a huge topic of discussion. The comments even divided opinions as some agreed, whereas some believed the Brit wanted to get the FIA’s attention to Red Bull. The hosts of the Red Flags podcast believe in the latter and called Russell out for playing mind games.

Discussing Russell’s comments, the two hosts divulged their opinion on the matter.

“I think George is being self-interested here. He’s almost GOAT-ing them to like dominate,” said one host. He gets interrupted by another host who adds, “Or GOAT-ing the FIA to take a look.”

The former continues, “That’s a sort of game-playing as well. I think he’s trying to get the refs involved.”

Read More: Max Verstappen Dons a New Diplomatic Avatar to Shield George Russell’s Sandbagging Allegations

Only the Mercedes man knows what was the reason behind the comments, completely innocent or slightly malevolent. However, he quickly backtracked on his comments after the Australian GP

George Russell backtracks on his comments about Max Verstappen and Co. after the Australian GP

The Brit started the race in Melbourne second on the grid alongside Verstappen. In fact, going into turn 1, Russell was already ahead of Verstappen and leading the race. However, an untimely decision to pit behind the safety car cost him his grid position and an engine failure ended his race early.

However, Russell’s teammate Lewis Hamilton held the fort and finished P2. The race proved the W14 is not as far from off from the competition as expected. This made Russell retract his comments.

“Yes, I think the Red Bull is one step ahead of everyone, and yet both Lewis and I made the most of the vehicle in the ranking rounds,” he said. “So we will not give up, we will continue to push. After bringing some updates to the vehicle, we will have to reconsider the season. It is the first time we can really find out if updates are working as we wish in a few races and whether we can fight [Red Bull ].” 

WATCH THIS STORY: WATCH: George Russell’s Lonely Moment on Baku Podium Amid Glorious Red Bull Celebration

There is renewed hope in the Mercedes camp and the entire team is working tirelessly to bring positive changes to the car. Will it be enough to catch a vastly superior Red Bull? Only time will tell!