The Race F1 Podcast HILL & HERBERT: Who will be 2026 F1 champion? Damon and Johnny's verdict
Jan 11, 2026
Damon Hill and Johnny Herbert dive into the excitement of the 2026 regulations, discussing how new rules will shift driving techniques and team dynamics. They focus on Lando Norris's potential growth after securing a title and analyze Isack Hadjar's role at Red Bull alongside Verstappen. The duo debates which teams will thrive or struggle under the new guidelines, speculating on engine loopholes and the impact of Red Bull's recent staff changes. Plus, they compare aging legends Hamilton and Alonso, pondering their future form in the competition.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Find Your Own Development Path
- Drivers and teams must innovate rather than copy rivals to truly lead.
- Use driver input to explore unconventional strategies and create unique development directions.
Leading Feels Different At The Front
- Damon Hill recalled leading briefly in karting and the different pressures of being out front in F1.
- He used that memory to illustrate how scary and unfamiliar being the pace-setter can feel.
Hadjar Must Play The Long Game
- Isack Hadjar's consistency and team communication made him stand out in 2025.
- At Red Bull he must accept a supporting role and play team games to develop into a future number one.