Johnny Herbert calls Max Verstappen the 'dictator of the driver market' for 2027
Johnny Herbert warns that Max Verstappen holds unprecedented power over the F1 driver market for 2027, suggesting his potential decision to leave Red Bull could make every top seat insecure and trigger a major grid shake-up.
Former F1 driver and steward Johnny Herbert has declared Max Verstappen the "dictator of the driver market," suggesting every driver on the grid should be concerned about their seat for the 2027 season. Herbert believes Verstappen's unique position and intimidating talent give him unprecedented power to trigger a major driver shake-up if he decides to leave Red Bull.
Why it matters:
Verstappen's contract situation and performance level create a potential domino effect that could redefine team lineups across the grid. As a four-time champion still in his prime, his decision on where—or if—to move for the 2026 regulation cycle will be the single most influential factor in the driver market, putting pressure on every top team and their current stars.
The details:
- Herbert argues that "every single driver on that grid should be worried about their seat for 2027, because Max is going to be going for one of those big seats unless Red Bull absolutely do an amazing job next season."
- He highlights Verstappen's "massive ability" to intimidate rivals on track as a metaphor for his market power, stating this intimidation extends to contract negotiations and seat security for other drivers.
- The former driver sees Verstappen's championship-winning potential as far from over, guaranteeing "another one, two or maybe even three or four World Championships" for the Dutchman, which only amplifies his desirability and leverage.
- This perspective is echoed by commentator Martin Brundle, who named Verstappen the best driver of the 2025 season despite Lando Norris winning the title, underscoring the high regard in which Verstappen is held within the paddock.
The big picture:
The 2027 season is emerging as a pivotal reset point, with the 2026 technical regulations expected to reshuffle the competitive order. Verstappen, at the peak of his career, would be the ultimate free agent if he becomes available. Teams like Mercedes and Ferrari, who may have seats opening, would likely make a play for him, potentially displacing their own established number-one drivers and causing a cascade of moves throughout the grid.
What's next:
All eyes will be on Red Bull's performance in 2026. If the team masters the new regulations and provides Verstappen with a championship-contending car, he is likely to stay, stabilizing the market. However, if Red Bull struggles, Verstappen's potential decision to activate an exit clause would instantly become the biggest story in F1, effectively putting every top seat in play and confirming Herbert's prediction of Verstappen's role as the market's ultimate power broker.