Herbert: Norris's Title Will Fuel Verstappen's 2026 Championship Charge

Lando Norris may have clinched the 2025 Formula 1 world title, but the battle is far from over. According to former F1 driver Johnny Herbert, Max Verstappen's narrow defeat will only ignite a fiercer determination to reclaim his crown in 2026. After falling just two points short following a massive comeback, Verstappen is expected to return with a vengeance, leaving no room for Norris to rest on his laurels.

Why it matters:

The 2025 season finale didn't just crown a new champion; it established what could be F1's defining rivalry for years to come. Verstappen's response to his first title loss since 2020 will set the tone for the 2026 season. A motivated, four-time world champion with a point to prove is a formidable threat, potentially elevating both drivers and the entire grid to new heights.

The details:

• Verstappen mounted a stunning comeback, overcoming a 104-point deficit to ultimately fall just two points shy of Norris in the final standings.
• Former driver Johnny Herbert believes Verstappen's mindset will be: 'I'm going to make sure I get that world championship back.'
• Herbert warns Norris, 'There’s not going to be any resting on your laurels… Max will be saying enjoy it while you can, because he’s coming again.'
• Despite the fierce competition, Herbert notes a mutual respect between the drivers, suggesting Verstappen is also 'sort of happy' for his friend's success, which could fuel a respectful but intense rivalry.
• Herbert also placed Norris 'up there with the best Formula 1 world champions,' while still believing the McLaren driver has untapped potential to improve further.

What's next:

The 2026 season is now poised to be a blockbuster showdown between a newly-crowned champion and a legend determined to reclaim his throne.

• Norris and McLaren will need to evolve to fend off a Verstappen who will likely be more relentless than ever.
• For Verstappen, the narrow loss serves as powerful motivation, potentially pushing him and Red Bull to find new levels of performance to re-establish their dominance.