Former F1 steward condemns Max Verstappen fans: 'They were the worst'

Former F1 steward Johnny Herbert has issued criticism to a portion of Max Verstappen's fans, highlighting the abuse he received during his time working with the FIA.

Herbert served as an F1 steward throughout the 2010s while also carrying out punditry duties for Sky F1.

In more recent years, Herbert provided interviews to betting websites and on one occasion, questioned Verstappen's “horrible mindset” in wheel-to-wheel battle after a clash with Lando Norris.

Herbert was dismissed as an F1 steward prior to the start of the 2025 season, with the FIA citing his media work as “incompatible” with the role.

In a more recent interview with a betting website, Herbert opened up about the maltreatment he felt he was subject to during his stewarding career.

When asked which fanbase he received the most abuse from, Herbert told Vision4Sport: “That’s easy! The Dutch fans who took issue with me questioning Max Verstappen.

“Actually, they weren’t just Dutch. They were from other countries as well: ‘Death to Herbert.’

“They were the worst. They accuse me of being biased. They still do to Martin Brundle.

“They say, ‘You’re biased to Lewis Hamilton.’ Well, we are British – and Lewis is a Brit.

“You’re Dutch and you support Max and you’re saying we’re biased, but you want us to support Max.

“They can’t have it both ways.

“Of course we are going to support a British driver, but it’s objective.

“We are wowed by the Flying Dutchman too. If England were playing Holland in football, of course I’m going to support England.”