Johnny Herbert joked that he would have a boxing fight with Max Verstappen’s father Jos Verstappen and rig it in his favor.
Max Verstappen and Jos Verstappen (via IMAGO), Johnny Herbert (in circle, via Planetf1)
The 2024 season witnessed several controversies in Formula 1 against multiple drivers. Max Verstappen was the center of attraction after being allegedly targeted by the British masses. Multiple individuals believed that the steward Johnny Herbert targeted Verstappen amidst his championship ambitions. This further caused a chain reaction of rumors that suggested Herbert had a spoiled relationship with Jos Verstappen.
Johnny Herbert cleared it in the past that he had a good relationship with Max Verstappen despite the on-track shenanigans. Similarly, Herbert was on good terms with the latter’s father Jos Verstappen as the former provided clarification. The Briton noted that he did not have a problem with Verstappen Sr. and reckoned it was the same from the latter. Moreover, the 60-year-old highlighted that he respected the father’s ‘protection’ towards his son as he was expected to do so.
I do not have a problem with Jos. I think it is the same the other way around. If we saw each other in the paddock, I am sure we’d say Hi and shake hands. He protects his son, and I respect him for that. You’d expect him to.
On an informal note, Herbert joked about a potential boxing match with Sr. Verstappen amidst all the rumors. The FIA steward claimed that the latter would have to fight with mittens since he was stronger. Additionally, the 60-year-old asserted that he would use the heaviest gloves possible to make the fight one-way in his favor.
If [we see Johnny Herbert vs Jos Verstappen in the boxing ring], I’d make sure he would have mittens, and I would have the heaviest gloves you could buy. It would be one way!
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Johhny Herbert ‘loved’ Jos Verstappen’s sense of humor
Jos Verstappen hadn’t commented much on the issues with the stewards towards the end of the season. Herbert declared that both individuals had their own opinions but this didn’t cause problems in their relationship. Since the Briton knew the Dutchman for a very long time, he reckoned that he loved Verstappen Sr’s sense of humor. Subsequently, the 60-year-old noted that it was wonderful to witness a father relish the enjoyment of his son’s achievement.
We both have our opinions. As far as I am concerned, my relationship with Jos hasn’t changed. I like him. I have known him for a very long time. I love his sense of humour, and it is wonderful to see a father relish the enjoyment of his son’s achievements.
Johhny Herbert noted
Johnny Herbert and Jos Verstappen (via Getty Images)
Red Bull has other problems to deal with than personal relationships between the members of the team. Hence, the winter break will be utilized to work hard on the chassis for the coming season. Milton Keynes will have to work massively on their form in order to make 2025 a prosperous year
