Formula 1: George Russell 'would understand' if Max Verstappen leaves the sport

Max Verstappen's highest finish so far this season is sixth George Russell says Formula 1 "would not want to lose" Max Verstappen - but he would "understand" if the four-time world champion decided to leave the sport this year. Verstappen said at the Japanese Grand Prix that he was considering his future in F1 because of his dissatisfaction with how the cars behave under new rules introduced this year. Russell, who has had a difficult relationship with Verstappen in the past, said: "Formula 1 is bigger than any driver, so you wouldn't want to lose Max, because I think we all enjoy racing against Max." But the British driver added: "You'd understand if he stayed and you'd understand if he went." Verstappen's concerns centre on the new power-units introduced this year, and the degree of energy management required. The engines have a near 50-50 split between internal combustion and electrical power. This, as well as a series of complex regulatory constraints, has introduced a new form of driving and racing. Verstappen does not enjoy either of the two main changes - qualifying laps are no longer on the limit at all times, in the traditional sense, because of the need to recharge the ba