F1 News: ‘Max Verstappen Is Better Than Michael Schumacher’ - Former Driver

Former F1 driver Johnny Herbert compares Max Verstappen to Michael Schumacher.

Oct 22, 2023; Austin, Texas, USA; Red Bull Racing Honda driver Max Verstappen (1) of Team / Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Former Formula 1 driver Johnny Herbert has stirred the pot by claiming Max Verstappen surpasses the legendary Michael Schumacher due to his impressive work on the simulator.

Key Takeaways:

• Ex-F1 driver Johnny Herbert claims that three-time Max Verstappen excels beyond Michael Schumacher, a seven-time world champion.
• The evolution of simulation technology and its integration into driver training is highlighted as a key factor in Verstappen's edge.
• Verstappen's adept use of simulators has developed a nearly instinctual feel for driving, contrasting with Schumacher's era.

June 17, 2005; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Michael Schumacher #1 of Scuderia Ferrari Marlboro watches the / Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

The debate over who reigns supreme in the world of Formula 1 has always been a hot topic, and Herbert's recent comparison between Max Verstappen and Michael Schumacher has thrown fresh fuel on the fire. According to Herbert, the advancement in simulator technology and its application in driver training significantly contributes to Verstappen's superiority over the F1 legend.

Herbert's comments underline a pivotal shift in how drivers prepare and adapt to the rigours of Formula 1 racing. He explained:

“Yes, Verstappen is better than Schumacher. It is about human development and evolution. When Michael was around simulators, they were there to be used, but Michael always felt a bit nauseous when he got on it.

“Max lives on a Red Bull simulator. He races on a simulator all the time. It is a sixth or seventh sense that these modern drivers have now. That is why you have constant evolution.

"It is how you use the tools when you get into the cockpit. Michael wasn’t able at the period to take simulator data into the cockpit. Max does."

The reigning F1 champion prefers the virtual racetracks of sim racing for relaxation during his time out of Formula One. Not only does he own an E-sports team, but he also participates in events like the virtual 24 Hours of Daytona.

Thank you to Inclave Casino for setting up this interview.