Johnny Herbert responds to FIA steward dismissal

Johnny Herbert has spoken out following the FIA's decision to dismiss the Briton from his long-standing role as an F1 steward, citing his media commitments as a conflict of interest.

The governing body deemed Herbert’s work as a pundit "incompatible" with stewarding, effectively ending his 15-year tenure in the role.

A former Formula 1 driver with a career spanning over a decade, Herbert retired from competitive racing in 2000 and later became a respected figure both in the paddock and on television screens.

Alongside his role as an FIA steward, he was a regular pundit for Sky Sports F1 up until last season, providing analysis and insight on the race weekend’s events.

However, his commentary on drivers and contentious incidents has become more incisive in the past few months, with Max Verstappen often at the center of his observations and criticism, much to the ire of the Dutchman’s father, Jos Verstappen.

• Read also: Herbert removed as FIA steward over media conflict

The debate on the lack of consistency surrounding the stewards’ calls in Formula 1 has intensified within the sport, with many calling for the position to become a full-time, paid role to enhance consistency and remove external influences.

As mere unpaid volunteers, stewards, like Herbert, are inevitably inclined to supplement their income through other motorsport-related work, such as punditry,

Despite the FIA’s decision, Herbert remained gracious in his response, taking to Instagram to express his gratitude for the experience.

Johnny Herbert’s Statement in Full

"I'm very grateful for the opportunity of being an FIA Driver Steward and I have thoroughly enjoyed the role I have been involved in over the years.

“It is a difficult job and there are tough decisions that have to be made," Hebert wrote.

"As Stewards, we have and will continue to treat both drivers and team personnel with the utmost respect and remain impartial at all times during all F1 Grand Prix weekends.

"Finally, l'm very grateful to the President and everyone at the FIA for the opportunities that I have been given."

Herbert's departure raises questions about the FIA's approach to managing potential conflicts of interest.

While his experience and insights were undoubtedly valuable to the stewarding process, the FIA's decision suggests a desire to maintain stricter boundaries between officiating and media commentary.

The ongoing discussion about professionalizing the stewarding role will likely continue as the sport seeks to ensure fairness and consistency in its decision-making processes.

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