The Formula 1 world can breathe relieved: Max Verstappen and George Russell have left their rivalry after the controversial crash in Barcelona and recently revealed that they are on good terms again. During a press conference for the Grand Prix of Great Britain, the two drivers told about a casual meeting at the airport, where they were on their way to the final of Roland Garros. The story, peppered with humor and a touch of everyday charm, shows how Verstappen and Russell have separated their professional struggle on the circuit from a growing personal bond, something fans has filled with warm feelings.
The crash in Barcelona earlier this season was one of the most discussed incidents of 2025. During a heated game around the leadership, Verstappen and Russell touched each other in a tight turn, causing both drivers to lose precious points. Russell, who finally had a car with Mercedes that could compete with Red Bull, was visibly frustrated after the race and suggested that Verstappen’s aggressive driving style had caused the collision. Verstappen, never shy for a reply, defended his actions and pointed to Russell’s own ambitious catch -up attempt. The tension between the two dominated the headlines, and fans speculated about a permanent gap between the Dutchman and the Brit.
But as Verstappen said smiling, the incident seems to have long forgotten. “To be honest, I had completely forgotten Barcelona,” he said. “I came across George a few days ago at the airport, Sunday morning, on his way to Roland Garros. He was there with his newborn baby, and we were just because of the safety control. We talked for a moment, and then he started to fold the pram to put it in the machine. It was such a normal moment that we are almost forgetting Rivals on the job.” Russell, who sat next to him, nodded in agreement and added: “It was a funny moment. Max even offered to help with the pram, which I did not expect!”
The anecdote offers a rare glimpse into the life of two top drivers outside the spotlight of Formula 1. Verstappen, who recently became the father of his daughter Lily, and Russell, who welcomed his first child, seem to have found a common basis in paternity. Their meeting at the airport, where they struggled together with the everyday challenges of traveling with a baby, brought a human side to the front that fans rarely see. Social media exploded with reactions, ranging from smiling emojis to comments that the two are “now best friends”.
However, the rivalry remains alive and kicking on the circuit. Verstappen leads the championship in 2025, but Mercedes, with Russell as a spearhead, has made a huge leap this season. The Grand Prix of Canada, where Verstappen narrowly won for Russell, showed how close the two teams are together. Russell’s consistent podium places and his victory in Monaco have made him a serious title candidate, and the battle with Verstappen promises to become even more intense as the season progresses. Nevertheless, both drivers emphasize that their respect for each other is intact. “We are fighting hard on the track, but then we shake hands,” said Russell. “That’s how it should be.”
The reconciliation between Verstappen and Russell comes at a time when Formula 1 experiences an unprecedented competitive season. With McLaren, Ferrari and Mercedes who put Red Bull the fire on the shins, every race is a battle at the sharpest of the cut. Verstappen, with his 60 career lectures, remains the man to beat, but Russell’s advance, supported by a reborn Mercedes, makes him a formidable opponent. Their ability to separate personal and professional relationships bears witness to their adulthood as athletes.
While Formula 1 caravan is preparing for the home race of Russell in Silverstone, fans not only look forward to their fights on the track, but also at more of these heart-warming moments. The airport meeting, with a pram and a shared smile, has placed Verstappen and Russell in a new light. It reminds us that even the biggest rivals outside the circuit are people, with families, dreams and an unexpected friendship that makes the sport even more beautiful.
