Controversial FIA steward declares F1 championship OVER

Max Verstappen, Red Bull, FIA, 2024, Social — Photo: © IMAGO

F1 News & Gossip

Controversial FIA steward declares F1 championship OVER

Max Verstappen stormed to victory at the Brazilian GP and has likely claimed a fourth title

Originally written by Kerry Violet. This version is a translation.

Friday 8 November 2024 18:00

An FIA steward has delivered a strong message on the 2024 Formula 1 drivers' championship after a dramatic weekend in Brazil.

Max Verstappen flew through the field from 17th on the grid to win his first race in months, all but wrapping up the title, and steward (and former F1 driver) Johnny Herbert has spoken out about what the race means for his rivals.

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F1's triple-header headed to Austin, Mexico City and finally Brazil, with Verstappen and nearest title challenger Lando Norris partaking in frequent feisty battles on track as both stars attempted a championship charge.

The US GP prompted significant debate over the FIA's regulations, after Norris was handed a five-second penalty for his overtake on Verstappen, which the governing body deemed to have occurred off-track.

Red Bull had a disastrous weekend in Mexico, with it being the Dutchman this time who was singled out for his controversial driving style, the FIA handing him two lots of 10-second penalties for yet another battle with Norris – with some fans criticising Herbert's dual role as FIA steward and a pundit who frequently features on betting websites.

Max Verstappen and Lando Norris have been embroiled in a fierce title fight

The championship challengers sparked debate over FIA regulations after their fight for P3 at COTA

Herbert delivers 2024 championship claim

The final race of the triple-header in Brazil was heavily disrupted due to adverse weather conditions, but Verstappen, a master in the wet, stormed through the pack to take his first victory since June despite starting from P17.

Speaking to SafestBettingSites.co.uk, Herbert discussed his thoughts on the championship after Verstappen's stunning display last weekend.

"The title race has to be over! When you do a drive like Max Verstappen did, you deserve to be in the position.

"He has earned the world championship. That was a stunning drive. The conditions were tricky on a demanding track, and he dealt with it supremely.

FIA steward Johnny Herbert has delivered his thoughts on Max Verstappen's 2024 title chances

"The first lap proved his racing mind, and ability is so much better than anyone else at the time. He has an uncanny belief in himself and places the car in the position that he needs to.

"The question for me again is why did he do what he did in Mexico when he showed in Brazil he didn’t need to.

"It was brilliant to see what he did. It is showing that maturity is coming, and his sheer speed is unbelievable."

Red Bull Max Verstappen Lando Norris FIA Johnny Herbert Brazil