Herbert to New Champion Norris: Verstappen 'Coming Again' in 2026
Lando Norris won his first F1 title by just two points, but Johnny Herbert warns that a determined Max Verstappen, who dominated the season's end, is already plotting to reclaim the crown from his friend and rival in 2026.
Lando Norris may have clinched his first Formula 1 world championship in a dramatic finale, but his reign at the top could be short-lived. After a stunning late-season charge saw Max Verstappen win seven of the final nine races, former F1 driver Johnny Herbert warns the Dutchman is already laser-focused on reclaiming his crown in 2026. This sets the stage for a compelling new chapter in the rivalry between two drivers who are as close off-track as they are fierce competitors on it.
Why it matters:
The Norris-Verstappen battle has become the defining rivalry of modern Formula 1, captivating fans with its blend of high-stakes competition and genuine friendship. Verstappen's relentless comeback, despite a massive points deficit, proved he remains the benchmark to beat, ensuring that Norris's maiden title victory will be immediately challenged. The psychological dynamic between the two friends adds a unique layer to the 2026 season, making their on-track fights even more intriguing.
The details:
- Norris secured his maiden title by a razor-thin margin of just two points, highlighting how incredibly tight the championship fight was in the final laps.
- Verstappen's charge was one of the most dominant in recent memory, winning seven of the last nine rounds and nearly overturning a 104-point deficit after the Dutch Grand Prix.
- Herbert believes Verstappen's reaction is twofold: genuine happiness for his friend's success, but also an immediate and intense focus on redemption.
- "Max will be disappointed that he didn't win it but sort of happy that Lando did achieve it because of the friendship that they do have," Herbert explained.
- "But Max will be very much thinking, ‘I’m going to make sure I get that world championship back.’"
- "So, 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."
What's next:
The 2026 season looms as a massive showdown, amplified by a complete set of new technical regulations for power units and chassis. This regulatory reset could shake up the competitive order, but the central narrative will likely remain the same. Norris will be driven to prove his championship was no fluke, while Verstappen will be fueled by a singular desire to reclaim his status as F1's undisputed number one, setting up another titanic battle for the ages.