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Rivals Ready to Take on Max Verstappen: F1 Drivers Plan to Push Back Against Champion’s Aggression in 2025

Carl Harrison by Carl Harrison
December 18, 2024
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 4 mins read
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Rivals Ready to Take on Max Verstappen: F1 Drivers Plan to Push Back Against Champion’s Aggression in 2025

Formula One F1 - Abu Dhabi Grand Prix - Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates - December 8, 2024 Red Bull's Max Verstappen in action during the race REUTERS/Jakub Porzycki

As Max Verstappen heads into the 2025 Formula 1 season chasing a fifth world title, his rivals are signaling a shift in attitude. Once dominated by Verstappen’s aggressive tactics, drivers like George Russell are fighting back—and they’re not holding back on or off the track.


A Dominant Champion Under Fire

Despite securing his fourth world championship in 2024, Max Verstappen’s season wasn’t without controversy. The Dutchman faced sharp criticism for his on-track aggression, including a bold move on Oscar Piastri in Abu Dhabi that reignited questions about his racing style.

Off the track, Verstappen’s feud with George Russell took center stage, stemming from an incident at the Qatar Grand Prix where Russell allegedly lobbied for Verstappen to receive a grid penalty. Verstappen branded the Mercedes driver as “two-faced” in the aftermath, fueling tensions that spilled into the Abu Dhabi paddock, where Russell claimed Verstappen had delivered a direct threat.


Rivals Fight Back: A New Era of Resistance

According to former F1 driver Johnny Herbert, the days of drivers conceding to Verstappen’s dominance may be over. Speaking exclusively to GPFans, Herbert praised Russell’s assertiveness and suggested that more drivers are adopting a similar mentality heading into 2025.

“You’ve got to stand up to someone like that,” Herbert said. “If you allow Max to keep pushing you off the circuit, he knows he can do that, and it’s going to be an easy win. It’s good to see George do that, and I think more drivers will fight back.”

Herbert believes that Russell’s outspokenness and refusal to back down are part of a broader shift among drivers, signaling a new level of confrontation toward Verstappen both on and off the track.


Intimidation vs. Resistance: Verstappen’s Tactics in Question

Verstappen’s ability to dominate his rivals has often been attributed to his intimidating racing style, which Herbert admits is a hallmark of the champion’s success.

“What Max does very well is intimidate the other drivers,” Herbert said. “But now, it seems like the drivers are pushing back, and that’s going to put pressure on Max.”

This change in mindset could disrupt Verstappen’s pursuit of a fifth title, as rivals become more determined to challenge him on every lap.


George Russell: Leading the Resistance

Russell’s defiance has become a rallying point for those hoping to break Verstappen’s stranglehold on the sport. From calling out Verstappen’s actions in Qatar to holding his ground in Abu Dhabi, Russell’s fearless approach reflects a broader sentiment within the paddock.

“The outspokenness of George is really refreshing,” Herbert said. “You’ve got to be intimidating back because that’s the only way you’re going 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 contentious grid, with drivers refusing to yield to Verstappen’s aggressive maneuvers. This shift may lead to:

  • More on-track clashes: With rivals emboldened, expect fierce wheel-to-wheel battles.
  • Heightened psychological warfare: Verstappen’s ability to rattle opponents may now face counterpressure from outspoken challengers like Russell.
  • A tougher title defense for Verstappen: If rivals consistently push back, Verstappen’s path to a fifth title could be more arduous than ever.

A New Era of F1 Rivalries?

Max Verstappen’s dominance has defined recent seasons, but the growing resistance among drivers suggests the Dutchman may no longer have it all his way. With Russell leading the charge and other rivals inspired to adopt a more confrontational approach, the 2025 Formula 1 season could mark a turning point in how champions are challenged.

“It’s not just about racing fast,” Herbert concluded. “It’s about showing you won’t back down, and I think Max’s rivals are finally ready to do just that.”

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