As Max Verstappen heads into the 2025 Formula 1 season in search of a fifth world title, his rivals are signaling a change in attitude. Once dominated by Verstappen’s aggressive tactics, drivers like George Russell are fighting back—and they’re holding nothing back on or off the track.
A Dominant Champion Under Fire
Although he won his fourth world championship In 2024, Max Verstappen’s season has not been without controversy. The Dutchman has faced heavy criticism for his aggressiveness on the trackincluding a daring maneuver on Oscar Piastri in Abu Dhabi which reignited questions about his racing style.
Off the track, Verstappen’s feud with George Russell took center stage, stemming from an incident during the Qatar Grand Prix where Russell reportedly argued for a grid penalty to be given to Verstappen. Verstappen called the Mercedes driver “hypocrite” subsequently fueling tensions that spilled into the Abu Dhabi paddock, where Russell claimed Verstappen had made a direct threat.
Rivals Strike Back: A New Era of Resistance
According to former F1 driver Johnny Herbertthe days of drivers giving in to Verstappen’s dominance may be over. Speaking exclusively to GPFansHerbert praised Russell’s assertion and suggested that more drivers adopt a similar mentality heading into 2025.
“You have to stand up to someone like that,” Herbert said. “If you let Max keep pushing you out of the loop, he knows he can do it, and it’s going to be an easy win. It’s good to see George doing that, and I think other drivers will fight back.”
Herbert thinks thatfranchise of Russell and his refusal to back down are part of a wider shift among drivers, signaling a new level of confrontation towards Verstappen both on and off the track.
Bullying vs. Resistance: Verstappen’s tactics in question
Verstappen’s ability to dominate his rivals has often been attributed to his intimidating running stylewhich Herbert admits was a feature of the champion’s success.
“What Max does very well is intimidate other drivers,” Herbert said. “But now it looks like the drivers are fighting back, and that’s going to put pressure on Max.”
This change in mentality could disrupt Verstappen’s quest for a fifth title, as his rivals become more determined to challenge him at every turn.
George Russell: Leading the Resistance
Russell’s defiance has become a rallying point for those hoping to break Verstappen’s grip on the sport. By denouncing Verstappen’s actions in Qatar and standing firm in Abu Dhabi, thefearless approach of Russell reflects a wider feeling within the paddock.
“George’s frankness is truly refreshing,” Herbert said. “You have to be intimidating back, because that’s the only way to beat someone like Max, by really pushing him to his absolute limits. »
What does this mean for 2025?
The 2025 season could see a more conflicting gridwith drivers refusing to give in to Verstappen’s aggressive maneuvers. This change could result in:
- No more collisions on the track : With rivals encouraged, expect fierce wheel-to-wheel battles.
- Increased psychological warfare : Verstappen’s ability to destabilize his opponents could now face counter-pressure from outspoken challengers like Russell.
- A tougher title defense for Verstappen : If rivals consistently resist, Verstappen’s path to a fifth title could be tougher than ever.
A new era of rivalries in F1?
Max Verstappen’s dominance has defined recent seasons, but growing resistance among drivers suggests the Dutchman may no longer have a clear path. With Russell leading the charge and other rivals inspired to take a more brotherly approach, the 2025 Formula 1 season could mark a turning point in how champions are challenged.
“It’s not just about speed,” a conclu Herbert. “It’s about showing you won’t back down, and I think Max’s rivals are finally ready to do just that.”
