Former F1 Star Johnny Herbert Receives Death Threats Over Alonso Penalty Decision

Former F1 star Johnny Herbert faced a wave of abuse and death threats following a penalty handed out to Fernando Alonso at the Australian Grand Prix. The incident occurred when Alonso’s actions led to George Russell crashing his Mercedes, resulting in a 20-second penalty for the Spaniard.

Herbert, who was part of the stewarding panel that made the decision, revealed the disturbing backlash he received on social media. Trolls targeted him with threats and insults, referencing a past altercation between Herbert and Alonso. Despite the onslaught, Herbert remains undeterred and committed to his role as a steward in F1.

The former F1 driver expressed his disappointment in the lack of action taken by social media platforms to prevent such behavior. He emphasized the need for accountability and consequences for those who engage in online abuse. Herbert highlighted the impact such threats can have on individuals, urging for a more proactive approach to address the issue.

While Herbert maintains a resilient attitude towards the situation, he called for a collective effort to combat online harassment. He emphasized the importance of distinguishing between passionate fans and those who resort to threatening behavior. As the F1 community grapples with the dark side of social media, Herbert’s experience serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by those in the spotlight.