P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Max Verstappen has been backed to bounce back in 2026 and fight for the drivers’ title once again.
Former F1 driver Johnny Herbert has warned world champion Lando Norris that Max Verstappen is “coming again” in 2026 to dethrone the British driver. Norris secured his maiden title by just two points over Verstappen, who won seven of the final nine rounds in a relentless charge after being 104 points adrift following the Dutch Grand Prix. Unfortunately for Verstappen, the deficit was too great to completely overcome, although he did everything in his power in pursuit of a record-equalling fifth consecutive drivers’ title. Despite missing out on the crown in Abu Dhabi, Verstappen was quick to congratulate Norris, a friend of his. In the past, Verstappen and Norris have often been spotted socializing together, with Herbert believing the Red Bull driver will be happy for his friend. Herbert also thinks Verstappen will already be focused on bouncing back next season and taking the #1 spot away from the McLaren star. Max [Verstappen] will be disappointed that he didn’t win it but sort of happy that Lando [Norris] did achieve it because of the friendship that they do have,” Herbert told NewBettingSites.uk. “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.”
