George Russell eager to copy Max Verstappen after Toto Wolff talks

George Russell has revealed having held talks with Toto Wolff about following in the footsteps of Max Verstappen and attempting a record-breaking attempt of the Nordschleife.

Verstappen set an unofficial lap record for a GT3 car last year of seven minutes and 45 seconds as part of his preparation for this weekend's attempt at the Nürburgring 24 Hours.

The all-time lap record is a 5:19.546s, set by Timo Bernhard in a Porsche 919 Hybrid Evo, now eight years ago.

Mercedes driver Russell has conceded to being inspired by four-time F1 champion Verstappen's recent exploits around the 'Green Hell', including his victory in an NLS2 race in March.

"I did watch Max's race at the Nordschleife, and I did also watch the wet race in Imola, both of which were very cool," said Russell, speaking to the media, including RacingNews365.

"The Nordschleife is something that one day I'd love to do - without doubt.

"I have driven it before. I've driven hundreds of laps on the sim around the Nordschleife, so I don't know when that day will be."

Unlike Verstappen and his understanding with Red Bull of racing in other series outside of F1, even in-season, Mercedes' policy has always been more reserved.

"I did once try having a conversation with Toto about putting the F1 car around there and breaking the all-time lap record," added Russell. The British driver, however, did not elaborate on how those talks concluded.

Changing subject, Russell said: "Right now, I'm focused on trying to win an F1 world championship." After four rounds, Russell trails team-mate Kimi Antonelli by 20 points in the drivers' standings following the Italian's remarkable run of three successive victories.

Concluding with a pointed nod to Verstappen and what it might take to convince Wolff of his earlier suggestion, Russell said: "Hopefully, when I've got four under my belt, I'll go and race at the Nordschleife during my F1 season!"