Johnny Herbert discusses Verstappen’s tactics and driver unity amid growing scrutiny over FIA decisions during an intense F1 season finale.
Johnny Herbert is one of the former F1 drivers who has been in the spotlight this season, notably because he often serves as one of the FIA’s “driver” stewards.
In this capacity, he notably penalized Max Verstappen in Mexico, which drew significant criticism at the time, as did his frequent comments about F1 in the media. This did not sit well with Jos Verstappen, among others.
Herbert’s latest remarks are unlikely to be better received. According to him, Max Verstappen’s reckless overtaking attempt on Oscar Piastri at the start in Abu Dhabi was aimed at intimidating McLaren.
Verstappen collided with Piastri, sending both drivers spinning. Verstappen received a 10-second penalty, while Piastri had to spend the race recovering to 10th place, which could have cost McLaren the Constructors’ title.
Herbert stated that Verstappen admitted fault and chose an aggressive overtaking move to send a message.
“It’s a matter of intimidation. McLaren will be a threat to him next year. We’ve seen that Oscar has the potential to win races and possibly a world championship, just like Lando [Norris], of course.”
“So, when you’re wheel-to-wheel like in Abu Dhabi, neither is going to back down. You heard the radio message with Oscar saying ‘Good,’ when he heard Max had been penalized. It’s brilliant. We’ve got someone else ready to stand up to Max.”
Herbert added that he expects more rivals to push back against Verstappen throughout the 2025 F1 season.
“That’s where we’ve seen a shift this season. George [Russell] has had a few issues and verbal clashes with Max.”
“That’s exactly what Max has done so well for years, using every tool at his disposal, and that includes intimidation.”
“This year, other drivers have said, ‘OK, we’re ready to do the same.’ Leclerc, Russell, Piastri, Hamilton, and we’ll see more of it from Norris as well.”
On the topic of intimidation, but in the opposite sense this time, Herbert also emphasized that “everyone has enough respect for one another” within the paddock, despite intense criticism over how F1 is officiated.
FIA stewards have faced increased scrutiny following several incidents.
“There is no lingering animosity between them and the drivers. The drivers are more united than ever as a group. They hold very strong opinions.”
“I haven’t seen such cohesion in over 30 years. It’s good that they have a voice. The more they engage, the more they are heard. It’s important they are.”
“In the paddock, people move on. Yes, there are disagreements and frustrations, but you move forward. That’s the only way. There’s no lasting animosity with the drivers or their fathers.”
“Everyone knows being a steward is a tough job. I don’t feel it’s affected the relationships I have in the paddock. There’s enough mutual respect among everyone.”
- Discover More>Aston Martin F1 Team : The Full Story of Their 2024 F1 Season
- Follow us on >Facebook and >Twitter for F1 updates
F1’s 2024 Close: Herbert Weighs In on Tensions F1’s 2024 Close: Herbert Weighs In on Tensions
