Photo: Red Bull Content Pool

Herbert claims family life has made Max Verstappen a softer driver

22:02, 14 Jan

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byKada Sarkozi

Former F1 driver and FIA steward Johnny Herbert believes starting a family has made Max Verstappen softer.

"Well, it's even the family thing actually, with Max as well, coming into effect."

- Johnny Herbert

Speaking on the Stay On Track podcast, Damon Hill and Herbert discussed how Verstappen has changed. The two former drivers were often critical of the four-time world champion in the past.

According to the 1997 F1 champion, the Dutchman can get distracted by the prospect of doing other challenges, including the 24 Hours of Nurburgring or the 24 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps, after spending so much time in Formula 1.

He said: "He wants to go, he's got an ambition to do other things. Well, he's only 28. He hasn't even started yet."

Johnny Herbert - Photo: Race Pictures

According to Herbert, starting a family changed the Red Bull Racing driver. Ahead of the 2025 Miami Grand Prix, Verstappen became a father after Lily was born.

Herbert continued: "Well, it's even the family thing actually, with Max as well, coming into effect. To me, I don't know about you, it comes across as a much softer Max than it was before.

"But then I go to Spain, and his little sort of wheel-banging with George. So there's still elements of that side that's still there. But I think as a whole, he's matured massively," he concluded.

Herbert sees Verstappen going for the title again

According to the Briton, losing the 2026 title to Lando Norris made the Dutchman more eager to reclaim his throne.

In an interview with a betting site, he said: "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."

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