George Russell given fresh verdict on incident after FIA decided on stripping him of win

George Russell sent Max Verstappen a firm message with his bold driving at the Canadian Grand Prix, according to Ralf Schumacher. The Mercedes driver successfully converted pole position to victory in Montreal with Verstappen coming home in second. The race finished behind the safety car due to Lando Norris crashing out while attempting to overtake his McLaren team-mate Oscar Piastri.

After the race, it emerged that Red Bull had appealed the result by submitting two protests against Russell. They claimed that he drove erratically in front of Verstappen during the safety car period in an attempt to get the Dutchman penalised. Red Bull also argued that Russell had committed 'unsportsmanlike conduct' due to his role in the incident.

Both protests were dismissed by the stewards, who allowed the Brit to keep his victory after reviewing data and video evidence. Schumacher, meanwhile, thought Russell's actions were bordering on foul play.

He also said the incident showed that Russell, like Verstappen, is willing to delve into the dark arts and chase victory at all costs.

"George clearly showed Max with his braking move behind the safety car: 'Hey, I know the rules too and I can do it too', but he wasn't far from a foul," Schumacher told Sky Germany.

"Even Verstappen wouldn't do something like that, he would do it a bit more gallantly, but he clearly showed Max that he is someone who wants to win with all his might and that he is willing to use any means to do so."

Russell is facing an uncertain future at Mercedes, with the 27-year-old only tied down until the end of the season. He is yet to sign fresh terms despite Toto Wolff insisting that a deal will be agreed in due course.

The man from King's Lynn has made it clear that he is only speaking to Mercedes, but the rumour mill has linked him with a potential move to Aston Martin. This would potentially open the door for Verstappen to take his place at Mercedes, who are known to be keen admirers.

"George is doing everything right at the moment," added Schumacher. "At some point, Toto Wolff has to draw the line otherwise other teams will arrive.

"The dynamics in Formula One are very fast. Russell is one of the hotter candidates for all teams who are still looking for a good driver now, but Max Verstappen still makes the difference. He always gets the maximum out of the situation.

"He can read races like no other. Verstappen is the number one driver that any team would take immediately. After that, nothing comes for a long time and then the rest comes consisting of Oscar Piastri, Russell and Charles Leclerc."