Three-time Grand Prix winner Johnny Herbert will no longer be a steward at Grand Prix races, the FIA confirmed on Wednesday morning.
Over the last number of years, the former British driver has combined his role as a steward at some races with media work. Previously it was with Sky Sports until he left the broadcaster at the end of 2022. He was axed.
Through last year and into January, Herbert has not been shy in giving strong opinions. Max Verstappen in particular has been on the receiving end of them. These interviews have regularly taken place with gambling or betting organisations.
Controversial opinions
After the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix last year where Max Verstappen picked up a 10-second time penalty for his collision with Oscar Piastri, Herbert accused the four-time World Champion of trying to intimidate his rivals.
“It is all about intimidation.
“McLaren are going to be a threat to him next year. We have seen Oscar [Piastri] has the potential to win races and perhaps a World Championship, as of course does Lando [Norris].
“So, when you are wheel-to-wheel as they were in Abu Dhabi neither was going to give way. You heard the radio communication and Oscar saying, ‘Good’, when he heard Max had been given a penalty. That’s great. We have someone else prepared to stand up to Max.
“That is where we have seen a shift this season. George [Russell] has been having a few issues and verbal confrontations with Max [Verstappen]. This is exactly what Max has done so well for years, using all the weapons he can, and that includes intimidation.
“The other drivers this year have said, ’OK, we are up for that.’ [Charles] Leclerc, Russell, Oscar, Lewis [Hamilton], and we will be seeing more of it from Lando as well.”
Herbert had been due to be a FIA steward at the Australian Grand Prix in March, the opening round of the 2025 season. However, that will not be happening now following an agreement to end the collaboration.
FIA statement
“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.”
Johnny Herbert statement
On Wednesday evening, Johnny Herbert released a statement of his own through his Instagram account.
“I’m very grateful for the opportunity of being an FIA Driver Steward and I have thoroughly enjoyed the role l have been involved in over the years. It is a difficult job and.there are tough decisions that have to be made.
“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, I’m very grateful to the President and everyone at the FIA for the opportunities that I have been given.
“Johnny Herbert”
