Breaking: Johnny Herbert Criticizes Verstappen for Disrespectful Conduct After…..read more 

Johnny Herbert Criticizes Verstappen for Disrespectful Conduct After…..read more 

Former Formula 1 driver and ex-FIA steward Johnny Herbert has taken aim at Max Verstappen following his actions at the conclusion of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, labeling the Dutchman’s behavior as both “unprofessional” and “disrespectful.” According to Herbert, Verstappen failed to demonstrate basic sportsmanship during the post-race celebrations, particularly towards race winner Oscar Piastri and Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, who completed the podium.

Herbert voiced his disappointment over what he saw as Verstappen’s unwillingness to engage in the traditional celebrations on the podium. While the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix ended with Piastri taking the top step, Herbert claims Verstappen showed minimal enthusiasm and refrained from properly acknowledging the achievements of his fellow competitors. Instead of joining in the usual champagne-spraying or post-race camaraderie, Verstappen appeared distant and withdrawn.

The controversial moment came after Verstappen received a five-second time penalty during the race. The Red Bull driver was penalized for leaving the track at Turn 1 and gaining a lasting advantage during a wheel-to-wheel battle with McLaren’s Oscar Piastri. The incident occurred when both drivers approached the first braking zone; Piastri opted for the inside line, forcing Verstappen wide. In response, Verstappen cut across the chicane and rejoined the track ahead of Piastri via the run-off area.

The stewards judged that Verstappen had benefited unfairly by leaving the track and handed him a five-second penalty. He served the time during his only pit stop. Despite his efforts to recover, Verstappen crossed the finish line in second place, trailing Piastri by just 2.8 seconds. This outcome, understandably frustrating for Verstappen, marked a rare moment when he did not come out on top in a direct race battle.

Following the race, Verstappen was visibly reluctant to discuss the penalty or the events that led to it. When asked about the stewards’ decision, Verstappen declined to comment in detail. Instead, he cryptically remarked that “people can’t handle the full truth,” hinting at his disapproval of how the situation was handled but stopping short of elaborating. His guarded response only added fuel to the post-race debate.

Johnny Herbert, reflecting on the incident and Verstappen’s demeanor, expressed strong disapproval. Speaking to the media, Herbert said that Verstappen’s failure to engage with the other podium finishers and the fans reflected poorly on him. According to Herbert, being a Formula 1 driver is not just about winning races but also about showing class and respect, especially when things don’t go your way.

“Max may be frustrated, and he has the right to feel that way,” Herbert said. “But how you carry yourself after a tough race is just as important as how you celebrate a win. Walking off and barely acknowledging the winner – especially a young driver like Piastri who drove brilliantly – doesn’t send the right message.”

Herbert also questioned Verstappen’s reaction to the penalty, suggesting that such responses risk setting a negative example for the next generation of drivers. “Criticizing or hinting at bias from the stewards without offering a proper explanation or evidence just creates tension and confusion,” Herbert added.

This isn’t the first time Verstappen has faced criticism for his post-race conduct. While his talent and dominance on the track are undeniable, moments like this continue to spark debate about his maturity and sportsmanship under pressure.

Meanwhile, Oscar Piastri remained focused on his achievement, calmly addressing the media after his win and downplaying the post-race drama. The Australian praised his team for their strategy and expressed satisfaction with how he handled the pressure of battling with Verstappen. For Piastri, the victory marked a significant milestone in his career and reinforced his growing reputation as a future F1 star.

As for Verstappen, questions linger about how he will respond in the upcoming races – both in terms of his performance and his attitude. With the championship fight still very much alive, the spotlight remains firmly fixed on the Red Bull driver, not just for his on-track prowess, but for how he handles the ever-intense scrutiny off it.