Johnny Herbert has been dropped from his role as steward for the Federation Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) amid growing concerns over the incompatibility of his duties with his media punditry work. The decision, confirmed by the FIA on January 29, 2025, marks the end of Herbert's 15-year tenure as part of the F1 steward panel.
According to the FIA’s official statement, the governing body expressed regret over Herbert's departure, acknowledging his invaluable experience and contributions to the role. "It is with regret we announce today Johnny Herbert will no longer fulfil the position of F1 driver steward for the FIA. Johnny is widely respected and brings invaluable experience and expertise to his role," the statement read.
Herbert, whose racing career spanned from 1989 to 2000, became embroiled in controversy following the 2024 Mexico City Grand Prix. During the race, the three-time Grand Prix winner criticized the driving style of four-time world champion Max Verstappen, who received penalties for colliding with rival Lando Norris. Herbert described Verstappen’s aggressive tactics as having a "horrible mindset," sparking backlash from Verstappen and his camp.
Jos Verstappen, Max's father, openly questioned Herbert's dual role as steward and media commentator, stating, "I think a steward shouldn’t talk to the press at all." This criticism illuminated the conflict of interest concerns surrounding the FIA's stewarding decisions amid media commentary. Following this incident, both Verstappen and his father called for reassessment of the stewarding staff, highlighting the potential bias this situation could create.
Despite criticisms, Herbert defended his right to express opinions separate from his steward duties. He emphasized, "Everyone has an opinion. Martin Brundle has an opinion. Why can't I when I am not at the racetrack?" His stance reiterated the argument he maintained throughout the controversy—that his role as a pundit did not impair his ability to serve impartially as a steward during races.
The FIA's swift action to remove Herbert aligns with its recent pattern of high-profile departures. The organization has faced scrutiny over conflicts within its ranks, as evidenced by the recent dismissal of American steward Tim Mayer, which stemmed from discontent over FIA regulations at the Circuit of the Americas. Herbert's exit is part of a larger trend of reshaping the stewarding panels to uphold integrity and accountability within Formula 1's regulatory framework.
Herbert's departure has left the FIA searching for his replacement as the season is set to kick off with the Australian Grand Prix on March 16, 2025. McLaren principal Zak Brown has advocated for permanent full-time stewards, arguing this would create more consistency and reduce potential influence from external opinions.
Now with Herbert no longer on duty, the emphasis shifts back to the integrity of race officiation as F1 continues to navigate controversies involving its star drivers. The positive or negative ramifications of this decision will be anxiously monitored by fans and teams alike this coming season. Herbert's exit from stewarding duties rekindles discussions around the importance of impartiality and neutrality within FIA's governance.
F1 fans are left wondering how this shift will impact the relationships among teams and drivers, especially under the ever-watchful scrutiny of media and spectators. With accusations of bias persistently swirling around elite drivers, it's clear the FIA is taking measures to safeguard the credibility of its officiation processes, particularly as the sport's visibility and stakes continue to rise.