Former Formula 1 driver and three-time Grand Prix winner Johnny Herbert has been removed from his role as an FIA driver steward due to a conflict of interest arising from his media punditry work. The FIA announced the decision, characterizing it as a mutual agreement following discussions about the neutrality required for stewardship.
Herbert, had been a polarizing figure among the pool of former drivers serving as stewards in Formula 1. However, his outspoken commentary in various media outlets, including opinions on decisions he adjudicated as a steward, sparked scrutiny. Notably, his comments criticizing rulings, including those involving Max Verstappen at the 2024 Mexican Grand Prix, highlighted the challenges of balancing his dual roles.
FIA’s Official Statement
The FIA confirmed Herbert’s departure in an official statement, emphasizing how his punditry and stewarding roles were deemed “incompatible”:“It is with regret that we announce today that Johnny Herbert will no longer fulfil the position of F1 driver steward for the FIA. Johnny is widely respected and brought invaluable experience and expertise to his role. However, after discussion, it was mutually agreed that his duties as an FIA steward and that of a media pundit were incompatible. We thank him for his service and wish him well in his future endeavours.”
Herbert Defends Neutrality
Despite stepping down, Herbert stood firm in defending his ability to remain impartial during a race weekend, distancing his punditry opinions from his stewarding decisions.“As I have always said, I am Johnny Herbert the steward and the professional during a race weekend and Johnny Herbert a pundit at other times who expresses what he thinks,” Herbert explained. “When I am a steward, I do not express any opinions.”
Addressing accusations of bias, particularly from incidents involving Verstappen, Herbert added, “Everyone has an opinion. Martin Brundle has an opinion. Why can’t I when I am not at the racetrack? Is there any bias? No, of course not. When I see something on track I don’t agree with, I will say so openly.”
Punditry and Stewarding Tensions
While the FIA noted its appreciation for Herbert’s contributions, the decision reportedly stemmed from his ongoing media engagements, including work with betting companies. Herbert, previously a staple of Sky Sports F1 coverage until 2023, continued these partnerships, which the FIA considered unsuitable for someone in an officiating role.
This development also occurs amid a broader discussion about the need for permanent Formula 1 stewards. While some argue that a standardized panel of officials could bring greater consistency, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has resisted this move, citing the financial and logistical challenges involved in training and maintaining such a team.