Herbert Praises Verstappen's Intimidating Presence, Compares Him to F1 Legends

Johnny Herbert, a former F1 race winner, has lauded Max Verstappen's fearless racing and intimidating presence on track, drawing comparisons to legendary figures such as Ayrton Senna, Alain Prost, and Michael Schumacher. Herbert's remarks came during an appearance on the Stay on Track podcast, where he discussed Verstappen's defining attributes.

Why it matters:

Max Verstappen's dominance in recent seasons, often characterized by aggressive yet precise driving, has sparked discussions about his place among F1's all-time greats. Herbert's comparison highlights a psychological edge that top drivers often possess, suggesting that Verstappen's ability to intimidate competitors is a key factor in his success and a trait shared by multiple world champions.

The Details:

• Fearless Overtakes: Herbert specifically praised Verstappen's overtake on Lewis Hamilton at Turn 1 during the Mexican Grand Prix. He described the move as "brilliant," "right on the edge, very late," and executed despite "a little bit of tire rubbing," which he considers a natural part of racing.
• Intimidation Factor: According to Herbert, Verstappen possesses an "intimidation element" that reminds him of Senna, Prost, and Schumacher. This psychological aspect forces other drivers to "play hardball" and rise to the challenge.
  • Hamilton himself has acknowledged the need to be aggressive when racing Verstappen, telling Lando Norris that one "gotta play hardball to be able to take it to him."
• Mexican GP Incident: During the Mexican Grand Prix, Verstappen's aggressive lunge on Hamilton on lap six led to Hamilton cutting the chicane. Hamilton's subsequent attempt to retake the position resulted in him locking up, skidding off track, and receiving a 10-second penalty.
  • Former F1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya later criticized Hamilton's penalty, arguing it was controversial and that Verstappen should also have been penalized for the initial incident.

The Big Picture:

Verstappen's driving style often borders on the aggressive, pushing the limits of track etiquette. This approach, however, mirrors the uncompromising attitudes of past champions who were known for their relentless pursuit of victory and their ability to get inside their rivals' heads. His consistent performance and unyielding nature make him a formidable opponent, often forcing competitors into errors or defensive maneuvers.

What's next:

As Verstappen continues to dominate, his ability to combine raw speed with a strong psychological game will be crucial. The ongoing debate about his aggressive style underscores the fine line between hard racing and penalizable offenses, a line that often defines the most intense rivalries in Formula 1. This characteristic will undoubtedly continue to shape future on-track battles and cement his legacy.