Max Verstappen issues 'jungle' remark to mysterious George Russell problem

Max Verstappen has described F1 in 2026 as a “jungle” following the issues that plauged George Russell at the Belgian Grand Prix.

Russell highlighted his concerns throughout the weekend at Spa, insisting a mysterious power unit issue was significantly hindering his speed in a straight line.

The issue appeared once again on the opening lap as he was swamped by several of his rivals before contact was made with Lewis Hamilton.

Rather than voice frustration over the clash that eliminated him from the race, Russell was left furious over his lack of straight-line speed.

Several drivers have voiced their concerns with the new power units introduced this year, and after the race, Verstappen was asked what he thought of Russell's struggles. 

“I mean, welcome to F1 2026,” he told media including RacingNews365. “Sometimes it can be a jungle.”

F1 has already confirmed it is moving away from a 50/50 split between the engine and battery in 2027, which will eventually result in a 60/40 ratio from 2028 in favour of the engine.

As the drivers and teams continue to learn about the new power units, Leclerc stated the problems endured by Russell are not exclusive to the Mercedes driver.

“I don’t know what George’s issue was, obviously, but the only thing I can say is that it happens,” he said.

“These power units are so complex that there are some days when you scratch your head trying to understand why you are losing so much on the straights. 

“That was a bit the case for me on Friday and in FP3. Then, in qualifying, things went well again by slightly fine-tuning things. 

“It’s just very difficult, but also very frustrating sometimes for a driver because, even when you are doing your best, there are things in the background that change constantly, and that’s not so nice.”