Herbert: 'Verstappen has a significant advantage thanks to this'
Photo: Race Pictures
13:25, 12 Aug 2025
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Co-author:Kada Sárközi
Estéban den Toom is an editor at GPblog, specializing in Formula 1. With a background in journalism and a keen eye for detail, he delivers daily, reliable coverage and analysis of technical developments and on-track strategy within the sport.
It's no secret that Max Verstappen enjoys a bit of sim racing. Former FIA steward Johnny Herbert explained why this is so crucial to drivers in Formula 1, and how it can assist them.
According to Herbert, the Red Bull driver has a considerable advantage over those who do not drive on the sim, helping him to having another 'dimension added to his brain'.
"Because Max [Verstappen] has done it for so long, it’s just there, doesn’t even think about it, and it’s actually instinctive," the Brit began to a gambling website.
“That’s another capacity, a very small capacity, but any marginal gain is important. It is where that world has definitely become an important part of the real world. And it actually does work," the former F1 driver and steward continued.
Herbert on drivers who sim race, like Verstappen
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"Sims are an unbelievably massive tool that is very, very beneficial. And the young drivers who don’t do it, listen to me: ‘You should be doing it. If not, you will lose out!'," he shared his verdict.
Verstappen regularly streams sim racing with Team Readline, and takes part in certain competitions online.
The Dutchman was also previously asked on stream what the difference was between racing on the sim and racing on the track. Verstappen's answer can be read here.
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