Former Formula 1 driver Johnny Herbert is stepping down as a steward for the FIA, as announced by the FIA on Wednesday. In addition to his duties as an FIA steward, Herbert also served as an analyst. According to the governing body, the Brit’s roles are no longer compatible.
Herbert has been working with the FIA since 2010, the year when former drivers were first allowed to join the governing body. Over the past fifteen years, the Brit has been a steward at several Formula 1 races. For instance, Herbert was one of the stewards on duty during the clash between Max Verstappen and Lando Norris at the Austrian Grand Prix in 2024.
“It is with great regret that we announce today that Johnny Herbert will no longer hold the position of Formula 1 steward for the FIA,” reads the official press release. “Johnny is widely respected and brought invaluable experience and expertise to his role. However, after consultation, it was decided by both parties that his duties as an FIA steward and as a media analyst are incompatible. We thank him for his service and wish him all the best for the future.”
Consistency
In 2024, Herbert was repeatedly in the spotlight due to his comments in the media. There was also a lot of criticism directed at the FIA itself. Several prominent figures, including George Russell, Zak Brown, and Jos Verstappen, called for more consistency and professionalism among the stewards.
With Herbert’s departure, the FIA seems to be partially responding to Verstappen’s call.
