In the aftermath of Max Verstappen’s exhilarating victory at the Brazilian Grand Prix, FIA officials have issued a statement acknowledging the Dutch driver’s masterful performance, with an FIA manager affirming: “It’s the truth!” The race at Interlagos was a display of Verstappen’s s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s, with his incredible journey from 17th on the grid to victory leaving both fans and critics in awe.

Johnny Herbert, a former Formula 1 driver and recent FIA steward, spoke candidly about Verstappen’s performance, calling it a “stunning drive” that was on par with some of Formula 1’s greatest moments. “When you do a drive like Max Verstappen did, you deserve to be in the position. He has earned the world championship,” Herbert said. The Red Bull driver’s quick rise in the opening lap, moving from 17th to 11th within seconds, was just the beginning of a race full of calculated risks and s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁ful maneuvers.

Herbert’s comments have stirred debate among F1 enthusiasts, particularly Verstappen’s fans, who accused him of harboring a “British bias” due to his recent controversial rulings as an FIA steward. However, Herbert firmly rebuffed these accusations, asserting his impartiality. “Is there any bias? No, of course not,” he clarified, adding that his critical remarks about Verstappen’s driving style are separate from his official duties. “I am Johnny Herbert the steward and the professional during a race weekend, and Johnny Herbert a pundit at other times.”

Despite these tensions, Herbert’s respect for Verstappen’s Brazilian performance remained unshaken. “It was one of the all-time great drives,” he said, comparing Verstappen’s precision and confidence to legends like Michael Schumacher and Ayrton Senna. “The belief he has in himself is one the true greats have.”

While this victory boosts Verstappen’s standing, it also raises questions about his recent controversies. Reflecting on Verstappen’s aggressive driving in Mexico, Herbert pondered, “The question for me is why did he do what he did in Mexico when he showed in Brazil he didn’t need to?” Verstappen’s win in Brazil seems to signal a maturing phase in his career, one where he is ready to leave behind reckless tactics in favor of controlled, championship-winning drives.

The FIA’s validation of Verstappen’s race underscores the level of brilliance on display in Brazil. As the dust settles, fans and analysts alike eagerly anticipate how Verstappen will build on this iconic performance, particularly as the FIA keeps a watchful eye on his evolving style.