FIA steward slammed by Max Verstappen speaks out after BIAS accusations made I...

FIA steward slammed by Max Verstappen speaks out after BIAS accusations made I…read more

FIA steward Johnny Herbert recently responded to claims of bias following remarks made by Max Verstappen, who criticized the FIA’s actions after receiving penalties during the recent Mexican and Brazilian Grand Prix events. Verstappen, a three-time world champion, has been increasingly vocal against the FIA’s decisions, with Herbert becoming a focal point of his frustration.

Herbert was a steward at the Mexican Grand Prix, where Verstappen was given two separate 10-second time penalties. The Dutch driver argued that these decisions were overly severe and suggested a possible bias against him. In Brazil, the scrutiny continued when Verstappen incurred another penalty—this time a five-second one—for breaching rules during a virtual safety car phase.

In response to these allegations, Herbert emphatically denied any partiality. He insisted that the penalties were solely based on racing regulations and not influenced by any personal bias. Herbert stated that the stewards’ objective is to enforce fair play on the track, emphasizing that each decision is grounded in the rules to ensure a consistent standard is maintained across all drivers.

Herbert also took the opportunity to address Verstappen’s racing style, which he has previously described as “overly aggressive.” After the Mexican Grand Prix, Herbert shared his view with the media, advising Verstappen to consider a more measured approach, especially in his competition with other top drivers like Lando Norris. Herbert argued that a calmer style might help avoid potential incidents that could endanger other drivers and impact the outcome of races.

This latest exchange highlights the ongoing tension between Verstappen and the sport’s regulatory body. The Dutch driver, known for his fearless approach and direct communication, has often clashed with FIA decisions, raising questions about whether the current rule enforcement style aligns with the dynamic nature of modern Formula 1 racing. Verstappen’s fans and some industry insiders believe his complaints shed light on the challenges drivers face under strict stewarding, suggesting that a more flexible approach might benefit the sport.

However, Herbert and others within the FIA maintain that strict rule adherence is essential to uphold racing integrity. They argue that without consistent enforcement, Formula 1 would risk compromising fairness and safety. For now, the debate surrounding the FIA’s handling of penalties and Verstappen’s criticisms may continue, with broader implications for how rules are applied to all drivers in the sport.