Verstappen defended: 'You’ve got to be selfish in any sport'

Johnny Herbert can well understand the criticism of Max Verstappen after the Brazilian Grand Prix. The Dutchman made few friends when he decided not to put Sergio Perez ahead of him and stand for his own principles. According to Herbert, however, the selfishness in Verstappen is important in his successes.

Verstappen refused to follow Red Bull Racing's team order in Brazil because he was reportedly still angry about an incident in Monaco. At the time, Perez allegedly deliberately put his car against the wall in qualifying while Verstappen was on his flying lap.

"I think that just shows what Max is all about," Herbert revealed in conversation with Sky Sports News. "It’s a very selfish way but, to be honest, you’ve got to be selfish, I think, in any sport in many respects to get the best out of yourself, give yourself those race-winning chances and, of course, championships."

"That’s why he’s a two-time World Champion. And I think selfishness is something we’ve seen with Fernando Alonso and Michael Schumacher, Ayrton Senna, Alain Prost, the list goes on. So seeing that sort of situation was a bit of a bad taste in your mouth, but you sort of understand it as a sportsman and a Formula 1 driver."

Perez no longer worried

Perez revealed earlier this week about the incident that it has been discussed and talked out internally. The Mexican is therefore convinced that the moment is behind both men and that full attention will go to next weekend when the final race in Abu Dhabi awaits.