FIA Suspends F1 Steward Following Ra…read more

FIA Suspends F1 Steward Following Ra…read more

In a significant development just ahead of the Canadian Grand Prix, the FIA has taken disciplinary action against longtime Formula 1 steward Derek Warwick, suspending him for making unauthorized public comments. Warwick, a former F1 driver and respected figure within the sport, was penalized for speaking to the media without prior consent from the FIA—a move that breaches the organization’s strict media policies, especially for those in governance roles.

The incident that triggered the suspension occurred after the recent Spanish Grand Prix. Warwick participated in an interview with a gambling-related media outlet, during which he openly discussed a controversial late-race incident involving Max Verstappen and George Russell. The comments made during the interview touched on decisions taken by the stewards, the logic behind those decisions, and the potential consequences they could have for the drivers involved. Given the high-profile nature of the Verstappen-Russell clash and Verstappen’s delicate disciplinary situation—being just one penalty point away from a possible race ban—the FIA viewed Warwick’s statements as particularly inappropriate and potentially damaging.

Warwick’s discussion went beyond what is typically expected from officials who are meant to maintain neutrality and discretion, especially when dealing with ongoing or recent stewarding decisions. The FIA’s media policy is designed to ensure consistency, impartiality, and confidentiality among those in regulatory positions, particularly to avoid the perception of bias or favoritism. Warwick’s failure to adhere to these guidelines has led the governing body to enforce a suspension, sending a clear message about the seriousness with which they view breaches of media conduct.

The suspension marks a rare but pointed move by the FIA, highlighting the delicate balance between transparency and the integrity of race officiating. Officials, especially those who serve as stewards, are expected to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and refrain from commenting on race matters in public forums unless explicitly authorized. Warwick’s transgression was seen as compromising that standard, particularly because his comments could be interpreted as influencing ongoing discussions or evaluations regarding Verstappen’s potential penalties.

This action by the FIA comes at a critical time, as scrutiny over stewarding decisions and driver conduct has intensified in recent seasons. The organization continues to emphasize the importance of unified communication and has warned that any future breaches by officials will be met with similarly firm consequences. Warwick’s suspension serves as both a punishment and a cautionary example to others holding official roles in the sport.