Virgin Racing's Sam Bird believes that handing Max Verstappen an observer role with Formula E's stewards in Marrakesh did not do justice to the series' qualities.
As punishment for his post-race spat with Esteban Ocon at the Brazilian Grand Prix last November, Verstappen was given two days of public service by the FIA.
The first day of the Dutchman's community service came in the form of a presence among the stewards at Marrakesh on Saturday, where Verstappen was offered an opportunity to learn more about how the men behind the scenes assess and rule on driver incidents.
Verstappen's task was mocked on social media, with fans saying a forced trip to an FE race was a penance that far exceeded the driver's offense.
But Bird believes Verstappen's duties gave the wrong impression of Formula E.
"I didn't see him, it's nice that he's here," said the Brit who finished on the third step of the podium on Saturday behind Jérôme d'Ambrosio and Robin Frijns.
"[But] I mean, to call coming to a Formula E race community service I think does Formula E a bit of a disjustice.
"This is an amazing category, and people pay to come and watch us, it shouldn't be a punishment to come here.
"I hope he enjoyed it, and I hope he will give good feedback to some of his colleagues."
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