F1 NEWS: Former FIA Steward SLAMS Max Verstappen for ‘Unprofessional and Disrespectful’ Behavior After…read more
Ex-FIA Steward Criticizes Max Verstappen’s Conduct After Saudi GP: ‘Unprofessional and Disrespectful’
Max Verstappen’s reaction to his Saudi Arabian Grand Prix penalty has sparked backlash, with former FIA steward Johnny Herbert calling the reigning champion’s behavior “unprofessional and disrespectful.”
Verstappen finished second in Jeddah after being handed a five-second penalty for leaving the track and gaining an advantage during a Lap 1 clash with Oscar Piastri, who went on to win the race. Red Bull strongly disagreed with the decision, but Verstappen chose not to comment on the matter in post-race interviews, saying he couldn’t speak freely in today’s “super sensitive” world.
Herbert was unimpressed by Verstappen’s demeanor on the podium, where the Dutchman kept celebrations to a minimum and barely acknowledged Piastri or third-place finisher Charles Leclerc.
“He had some champagne but didn’t really celebrate with Oscar or Charles,” Herbert told *Beste Online Casino Nederland*. “That kind of behavior, especially from a four-time world champion, just seems unprofessional. Sometimes you need to show humility in defeat.”
Herbert, who is no longer part of the FIA stewarding team, also took aim at Red Bull boss Christian Horner for continuing to argue the penalty despite it already being served.
“People defending Max likely have no real racing experience—certainly not at F1 level,” he added. “Even Horner, despite his role, should have accepted the decision instead of producing photos to defend the move. Most drivers know when they’ve gained an unfair advantage and should give the place back.”
The incident has added fuel to the fire in what’s already been a tense F1 season, with Verstappen and Red Bull now facing criticism not just for their racing, but for their reactions off the track.
