“I’ll say two names: George Russell or Max Verstappen”
– Carlos Sainz
Sainz tips Russell and Verstappen as his picks 2026 title
“I’ll say two names, okay? Can I say two names? George Russell or Max Verstappen,” said the Williams driver while appearing on the Beyond The Grid podcast.
The Spaniard did not elaborate further on why he singled out those two names, although Russell has for months been regarded — together with Mercedes — as one of the leading contenders.
Verstappen, instead, heads into the 2026 season as the reigning runner-up after missing out on a fifth consecutive world title by just two points to Lando Norris, who will carry the number 1 on his helmet and McLaren this year.
Max Verstappen and George Russell in Singapore – Photo: Red Bull Content Pool
Pundit backs Russell not to be distracted by Verstappen pressure in quest for F1 title
Brundle also drew comparisons with the doubts that surrounded Norris and Piastri last year, when many wondered whether they would crack under pressure from Verstappen. In the end, however, both drivers proved capable of handling the challenge, something Brundle believes Russell is equally well equipped to do.