Johnny Herbert Explores Verstappen’s F1 Dominance and Endorses Sprint Races Amidst Challenging Qatar Conditions

In an exclusive interview with Sports Illustrated, Johnny Herbert, a former F1 driver, delved into Max Verstappen’s remarkable dominance in Formula 1, his views on the new sprint race format, and the demanding conditions of the Qatar Grand Prix. Herbert’s insights offer a unique perspective on the current state of Formula 1 racing.

Key Takeaways:

• Verstappen’s Exceptional Talent: Herbert compares Max Verstappen to legendary sports figures, emphasizing his natural ability and aggressive driving style. He highlights Verstappen’s skill in handling pressure and executing overtakes, akin to greats like Ayrton Senna and Lewis Hamilton.
• Sprint Races Add Flavor: Herbert expresses his approval of the sprint race format in F1, finding it adds an interesting twist to the weekend. He questions the classification of sprint wins and supports the idea that they contribute significantly to the championship.
• Racing in Extreme Conditions: Reflecting on the challenging conditions at Qatar, Herbert reminisces about his own experiences in grueling races. He advocates for the necessity of drivers being tested to their limits, seeing it as a vital aspect of the sport that showcases their heroism and athleticism.

Johnny Herbert, a name synonymous with Formula 1 excellence, recently sat down with Sports Illustrated to discuss the current dynamics of the sport. With a career decorated with three Grand Prix victories and stints with top teams, Herbert’s insight into Formula 1 is profound and multifaceted. During the interview, he shared his thoughts on various aspects of the sport, notably Max Verstappen’s dominance, the introduction of sprint races, and the extreme racing conditions faced at the Qatar Grand Prix.

Herbert, with his vast experience, draws parallels between Verstappen and some of the sport’s legends. “I think it’s like all top sportsmen,” Herbert says, likening Verstappen to figures like Tiger Woods, Rafael Nadal, and Roger Federer. He emphasizes Verstappen’s innate ability and his aggressive yet effective driving style, drawing a comparison with Ayrton Senna’s intimidating presence on the track.

Discussing the sprint race format, Herbert reveals his enthusiasm for this addition to Formula 1 weekends. While acknowledging that not all sprint races have been spectacular, he appreciates their potential to shake things up. Herbert expresses confusion over why wins in sprint races aren’t considered Grand Prix victories, arguing that they are integral to the championship.

The conversation then turned to the physically demanding conditions at the Qatar Grand Prix. Drawing from his own experiences in challenging races, like the 1999 Malaysian Grand Prix, Herbert underscores the importance of testing drivers to their limits. He recalls the struggle of racing without power steering and how it necessitated changes in his training and approach. In his view, facing such challenges is crucial for showcasing the drivers’ capabilities and resilience.

Herbert’s perspective offers a unique window into the evolving landscape of Formula 1. His comparisons of Verstappen to historical figures in the sport, his endorsement of the sprint race format, and his views on racing in extreme conditions provide a comprehensive picture of the current state and future trajectory of Formula 1.

As the interview concluded, Herbert’s words left a lasting impression. His acknowledgment of the sport’s evolution, coupled with a nod to its rich history, adds depth to our understanding of Formula 1 today. The insights from a seasoned veteran like Herbert are invaluable in appreciating the complexities and nuances of this high-octane world.