Ex-Formula 1 driver Johnny Herbert says that Red Bull believes Max Verstappen is the “best ever” in the sport.
Verstappen wrapped up his second F1 title last time out in Japan, in what has been a dominant campaign for the Dutchman.
While his title championship success in 2021 came amid a season-long tight battle with Lewis Hamilton, he has commanded the 2022 season, taking 12 of the 18 wins on offer so far this year.
Verstappen is contracted to Red Bull until the end of 2028, with Herbert stating that the 24-year-old’s growth is “scary” for other drivers to witness.
“He’s moulded that whole team around him, they totally think and believe he is the best ever,” Herbert told Sky Sports.
“I remember Michael Schumacher, it’s exactly the same situation. And he’s only going to get stronger and stronger. That’s the scary bit for everybody else who’s going to be trying to beat him.”
Verstappen is already tied for sixth place with Fernando Alonso in the all-time F1 wins list, which he matched with his victory in Japan on Sunday.
Jenson Button, who raced on the same grid as Verstappen for two years, says that Verstappen’s current form is reminiscent of Sebastian Vettel’s at Red Bull in the early 2010s.
“I saw this exact thing 11 years ago with Sebastian Vettel and Red Bull,” 2009 World Champion Button said.
“He went out and won the championship, actually at this grand prix and he was so dominant through the year and his team-mate was there or thereabouts… very similar to what Max has just done.”
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