Former Formula 1 driver Johnny Herbert has praised Max Verstappen for his composed performance at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, highlighting the Red Bull driver’s professionalism and skill.
Herbert on Verstappen’s approach
“I’m definitely not going to make life easy for Lando,” Max Verstappen had said after claiming pole position on Saturday. However, his challenge to the McLaren driver simply consisted of defending the lead into Turn 1 after a not-so-perfect start. It was completely legal and exactly what Lando Norris had attempted in Las Vegas, only to go wide.
During the race, Max Verstappen focused on leading authoritatively, securing his eighth win of the season without resorting to desperate tactics designed to bunch up the field or make life harder for Norris.
Herbert’s praise
“I’m really pleased that Max Verstappen drove like this,” said Johnny Herbert, speaking to NewBettingSites. “He won, gave everything he had, but didn’t turn the race into a rodeo by playing dirty. Even if he had tried risky tactics to secure the championship, it wouldn’t have been a clean victory. By racing the way he did, he showed he’s the best by driving purely.”
“I give Max great credit for what he did and said, driving at the best level of his career,” Johnny Herbert added. “He single-handedly kept the championship battle alive, carrying Red Bull with him when it seemed impossible to even win a single race in this 2025 season.”
Johnny Herbert’s comments underscore the respect Verstappen earned for relying on pure speed and strategic racing to conclude his season, rather than aggressive manoeuvres, reinforcing his status as a champion.
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