Spanish sports newspaper Marca has launched a scathing attack on former Formula 1 driver and ex-FIA steward Johnny Herbert, accusing him of harbouring an ‘unhealthy obsession’ with two-time world champion Fernando Alonso. The publication claims that Herbert, who was removed from his stewarding duties before the 2024 season, rarely gives an interview without mentioning the Spanish driver. The strained relationship between the pair has become a recurring theme in Formula 1 circles over the past seven years, with tensions showing no signs of easing as Alonso prepares for his twenty-third season in the sport.
Origins of the seven-year feud
The conflict between Herbert and Alonso traces back to 2016, when Herbert publicly suggested that the Spanish driver should consider retirement. Marca points out that Herbert initiated the hostilities with this controversial statement, which did not sit well with the former Ferrari and Renault champion. Alonso’s response was characteristically blunt and cutting, reminding Herbert of their vastly different career achievements in Formula 1.
The Spaniard fired back with a pointed retort that highlighted the gulf between their respective careers. Alonso stated that he had no intention of retiring, emphasizing his status as a world champion whilst suggesting that Herbert’s transition to commentary work stemmed from his inability to reach the same heights as a driver. This exchange set the tone for years of public tension between the two men.
Herbert has recently acknowledged in a podcast appearance that his relationship with Alonso remains ‘uncomfortable’ to this day. The former Jordan and Stewart driver admitted that their series of disagreements has created a lasting rift that shows no signs of healing, despite the passage of time and their continued presence in the Formula 1 paddock.
The Australia 2024 incident that intensified tensions
The feud reached new heights during the 2024 Australian Grand Prix, where Alonso received a twenty-second time penalty and two penalty points for dangerous driving. Herbert served on the steward panel that made this controversial decision, which drew significant criticism from Aston Martin and supporters of the Spanish driver. The penalty dramatically affected Alonso’s race result and added fuel to an already combustible relationship.
Four months after the Melbourne incident, Herbert attempted to extend an olive branch by approaching Alonso to offer a greeting. The Spaniard’s response was unequivocal and humiliating for the former steward. Alonso completely ignored Herbert’s gesture, turning away without acknowledgement and making his feelings abundantly clear through his body language.
According to Herbert’s account, Alonso delivered a cryptic message during that encounter, telling him not to worry because he would not be around much longer. Herbert interpreted this as a suggestion that the Spanish driver was planning to retire from Formula 1 in the near future, which would conveniently end their awkward interactions in the paddock.
Herbert’s accusations of dishonesty
With Alonso now confirmed to race through the 2026 season with Aston Martin, Herbert has branded the Spaniard’s earlier statement as a deliberate lie. The British former driver expressed his frustration at what he perceives as Alonso’s deception, pointing out that the forty-four-year-old remains very much part of the Formula 1 grid. Herbert’s public comments on this matter have only served to prolong the media attention surrounding their fractious relationship.
Herbert stated bluntly that Alonso lied to him about his future plans, as evidenced by the Spaniard’s continued presence on the grid. This accusation of dishonesty adds another layer to their complicated dynamic, with Herbert appearing unable to move past their various confrontations. The British driver’s willingness to discuss this matter publicly has drawn criticism from Spanish media outlets.
Marca suggests that Herbert’s constant references to Alonso serve a specific purpose beyond merely expressing his opinions. The newspaper implies that Herbert uses the Spaniard’s name to generate headlines and maintain his relevance in Formula 1 media circles, particularly after losing his official stewarding role with the FIA.
Marca’s damning assessment of Herbert’s behaviour
The Spanish publication did not mince words in its assessment of Herbert’s conduct, describing his fixation on Alonso as crossing into unhealthy territory. Marca conducted what appears to be an extensive review of Herbert’s recent media appearances, concluding that the former driver rarely gives an interview without bringing up the Spanish champion. This pattern of behaviour has led the newspaper to question Herbert’s motivations and professionalism.
According to Marca’s analysis, Herbert’s removal from his FIA stewarding position before the 2024 season has given him greater freedom to express controversial opinions without institutional constraints. The newspaper suggests that this newfound liberty has emboldened Herbert to speak more openly about Alonso, though not necessarily in a balanced or fair manner.
The Spanish media outlet frames Herbert’s behaviour as attention-seeking, arguing that his continued focus on Alonso guarantees media coverage and keeps his name in Formula 1 conversations. This strategic use of a high-profile driver’s name for personal publicity, according to Marca, demonstrates the unhealthy nature of Herbert’s fixation on the Spanish champion.
The contradiction in Herbert’s recent praise
Despite the ongoing animosity, Herbert recently made surprising comments praising Alonso’s abilities and competitive hunger. The former steward suggested that Alonso would likely defeat seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton in identical machinery during the 2026 season, citing the Spaniard’s superior motivation compared to Hamilton’s perceived decline in hunger for success.
This contradiction adds complexity to Herbert’s position, as it becomes difficult to reconcile his critical personal stance towards Alonso with his professional admiration for the driver’s skills. The praise could be interpreted as an attempt to appear balanced, though Marca clearly views it as insufficient to counteract Herbert’s overall negative fixation on the Spanish driver.
Herbert’s assessment that Alonso retains greater competitive fire than Hamilton represents a significant compliment, particularly given that Hamilton has won more championships and races. The comparison suggests that Herbert does recognize Alonso’s exceptional talent and determination, even whilst maintaining their personal feud continues unabated.
Alonso’s 2026 ambitions with Aston Martin
As the forty-four-year-old prepares for what could be his final Formula 1 campaign, Alonso has hinted that 2026 might provide the perfect opportunity to exit the sport on his own terms. The Spanish driver has made it clear that his continuation beyond next season depends entirely on whether Aston Martin can provide him with a competitive package capable of fighting for victories and potentially the championship.
Aston Martin has positioned itself strategically for the 2026 regulatory changes, securing the services of legendary designer Adrian Newey and establishing an exclusive partnership with Honda for power units. These moves demonstrate the team’s serious commitment to challenging at the front of the grid, which aligns perfectly with Alonso’s stated requirements for remaining in Formula 1.
The prospect of Alonso finally securing his long-awaited third world championship with Aston Martin would represent the ultimate response to critics like Herbert who have questioned his decisions and longevity. At forty-four years old, Alonso would become the oldest world champion in Formula 1 history, cementing his legacy as one of the sport’s greatest competitors whilst silencing those who suggested he should have retired years ago.
