Ex-F1 Driver Sends Bold “Disappointed Max Verstappen” Warning to Lando Norris over 2026 Title Defense

Johnny Herbert issues a stern warning to Lando Norris against Max Verstappen as the latter will aim to regain his champion status.

Ex-F1 Driver Sends Bold “Disappointed Max Verstappen” Warning to Lando Norris over 2026 Title Defense

Lando Norris and Max Verstappen (via Red Bull)

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Max Verstappen lost out on the 2025 driver’s title under very disappointing circumstances. After achieving a dramatic comeback in performance in the final half of the year, Verstappen quickly closed down on the 104-point deficit to the forefront. However, despite his resurgence, he lost the title victory by just two points to Lando Norris. As such, ex-F1 driver and axed FIA steward Johnny Herbert issues a warning to the reigning world champion of the impending threat from the Dutchman.

Max Verstappen put forth one of the greatest performances after returning from the summer break in the 2025 season. The Dutchman achieved nine consecutive podium finishes, of which five were race wins. Though it wasn’t enough to overcome Lando Norris in the standings, he lost the title to the Briton at Abu Dhabi. Now, Verstappen is certainly going to be disappointed and all the more hungry for his next championship win.

Johnny Herbert reckoned that Max Verstappen would be going through mixed emotions after losing the title win to Lando Norris. The Dutchman was definitely disappointed after losing his potential fifth consecutive title to Norris by just two points. On the other hand, Verstappen shared a great bond with the Briton and might be happy for him.

Regardless, the 2025 title defeat will surely make Max Verstappen want to get the reigning champion title back from Lando Norris. He will give it his all in the 2026 season, granted, if the Red Bull car permits him to do so. As such, Norris will not be able to rest for even a second in the coming season, as Verstappen will definitely be right on his tail.

Max [Verstappen] will be disappointed that he didn’t win it but sort of happy that Lando [Norris] did achieve it because of the friendship that they do have, But Max will be very much thinking, ‘I’m going to make sure I get that world championship back.’ So, there’s not going to be any resting on your laurels for Lando. Max will be saying enjoy it while you can, because he’s coming again.

Johnny Herbert told NewBettingSites.uk.

Max Verstappen reveals ‘surprising’ support from people in 2025 season

Max Verstappen was one of the many drivers who were frowned upon by many fans when he was dominating the grid and winning against the likes of Lewis Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel. He was even booed at many racing destinations back in 2023 when he shattered multiple records. However, this time around, Verstappen was received with immense love and encouragement from the crowd present at the races.

Max Verstappen winning the 2025 Italian GP (via Red Bull)
Max Verstappen winning the 2025 Italian GP (via Red Bull)

Upon this, Max Verstappen believes that the underdog role certainly helps gain a lot of positive attention from the fans. Still, he accepted that it was surprising to witness such a change in the fans’ mindset in supporting him. Verstappen boldly added that the people might have finally started to realize who he actually was and understand his racing mindset.

Surprising. Naturally, of course, with an underdog role, people will start to support you a bit more. But I guess maybe they finally start to realise who I am, who I really am.

Max Verstappen said on the Talking Bulls podcast.

The 2025 season proved that, despite all odds, Max Verstappen can perform well and still remain in championship contention. If the Dutchman is provided a dominant challenger, he can certainly repeat the dominance of the 2023 season and break many more world records.

Read More: Max Verstappen Takes a Brutal Dig at McLaren over Blunders That Almost Cost Them 2025 Title