Max Verstappen’s Future: Insights from Johnny Herbert on His Possible Career Moves
Uncertainty surrounds the future of Max Verstappen, the reigning four-time Formula 1 champion. As discussions about his next career steps continue, former F1 driver and FIA commissioner Johnny Herbert has shared his thoughts on what lies ahead for the talented Dutchman. According to Herbert, even taking a sabbatical is a viable option for Verstappen.
In an interview with a betting website, Herbert expressed confidence that a year away from racing wouldn’t hinder Verstappen’s performance. “I don’t think he would lose speed if he stayed out for a year,” Herbert stated. He emphasized that given Red Bull Racing’s current dominance in the sport and Verstappen’s impending fatherhood, a break might be appealing for the driver.
Herbert laid out four potential paths for Verstappen: staying with Red Bull, switching to Mercedes, moving to Aston Martin, or simply taking a year off. Despite these options, Herbert believes that Verstappen would prefer to be part of a team from the onset of the new regulations set to debut in 2026. The chance to tailor a car to his driving style could be a significant factor in his decision-making process.
“By taking a sabbatical, he could observe which team delivers the best car in 2026 and make his decision then,” Herbert explained. However, he is convinced that Verstappen will want to align himself with a team at the start of this new era.
Even with Mercedes showing signs of improvement in 2025, Herbert does not view this team as the best fit for Verstappen. He pointed out potential challenges, noting that if drivers like Kimi Antonelli and George Russell consistently finish in the top two spots, Verstappen could miss out on valuable opportunities. “Mercedes had conversations with the Verstappen family even before Max made his F1 debut,” he added, highlighting the long-standing interest.
Herbert suggests that Aston Martin could hold a strategic advantage for Verstappen’s future, primarily due to their association with renowned engineer Adrian Newey. “Mercedes may be stronger today, but Aston Martin has Newey, and that could be crucial before the regulatory changes come into play,” he said. If Aston Martin can develop a competitive car next season, Herbert believes it could position them as a prime contender for Verstappen.
As the world of Formula 1 evolves, the decisions made by drivers and teams will significantly shape the competitive landscape. Verstappen’s choices, particularly regarding his team affiliation and potential hiatus, will be watched closely by fans and analysts alike. With the weight of expectations and the ongoing developments in the sport, the next steps for Verstappen remain a topic of great speculation within the F1 community.
Verstappen’s legacy in the sport is already impressive, and the decisions he makes moving forward could either solidify or alter that trajectory. The anticipation for what the future holds is palpable, and as the clock ticks toward the new regulations, the Formula 1 world waits for signs of Verstappen’s next move.
One aspect to consider is the psychological impact of a sabbatical. Taking time away from the intense pressures of racing could provide Verstappen with the clarity and mental space needed to make strategic decisions about his career. The prospect of fatherhood also introduces a new dynamic, potentially influencing his priorities and aspirations in the sport.
Moreover, the strategic decisions made by teams regarding driver line-ups are often influenced by market perceptions and the underlying performance potential of their current and future vehicles. As teams jockey for position ahead of the 2026 regulations, Verstappen’s status as a top driver makes him a focal point in these conversations.
The future of Formula 1 is not just about the cars and the races; it is also about the people behind the wheel and the strategic maneuvers that define their careers. With Verstappen’s talent, any decision he makes will undoubtedly ripple through the racing community, affecting not only his future but also the dynamics of the teams involved.
In conclusion, the commentary from Johnny Herbert sheds light on the myriad of options available to Max Verstappen as he contemplates his future. The combination of personal milestones and the evolving landscape of Formula 1 creates a unique moment in Verstappen’s career. Whether he decides to remain with Red Bull, explore new opportunities with Mercedes or Aston Martin, or take a year off to reassess his path, each decision carries significant implications for his legacy in the sport.
As fans, we can only watch closely and speculate about what this next chapter will hold for one of Formula 1’s brightest stars. The interplay of personal and professional factors will undoubtedly shape Verstappen’s decisions as he navigates the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. The excitement surrounding his future is a testament to his impact on the sport and the high expectations that accompany his every move.
In the fast-paced world of Formula 1, where every second counts, Verstappen’s choices will be pivotal, not just for himself but for the teams and competitors he may align with. The landscape of Formula 1 is ever-changing, and Verstappen’s next steps could very well redefine the future of racing.
