BREAKING: FIA Suspends F1 Steward Following Un…read more
BREAKING: FIA Suspends F1 Steward Derek Warwick Following Unauthorised Interview…read more
In a dramatic turn of events ahead of the Canadian Grand Prix, the FIA has suspended veteran Formula 1 steward Derek Warwick for giving media comments without prior approval—comments deemed inappropriate given his role within the sport’s governing body.
The suspension stems from an interview Warwick gave to a gambling-related outlet after the recent Spanish Grand Prix. During the interview, the former F1 driver spoke openly about the late-race incident between Max Verstappen and George Russell at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. Warwick’s remarks, which delved into stewarding decisions and their consequences, were considered a breach of FIA media protocols, particularly sensitive as Verstappen stands just one penalty point away from a potential race ban.
The FIA acted quickly, removing Warwick from his scheduled stewarding role for this weekend’s Canadian Grand Prix. He was set to officiate on-site but has now been replaced by fellow former driver Enrique Bernoldi, who will instead oversee the race remotely from the FIA’s Remote Operations Centre in Geneva.
In an official statement released by the FIA, the governing body said:
“Following recent unauthorised media comments, the FIA has taken the decision to suspend Derek Warwick from his duties as driver steward for this weekend’s Canadian Grand Prix.
He will be replaced by Enrique Bernoldi, who will be officiating from the Remote Operations Centre in Geneva for the remainder of the event.
After discussion, Derek acknowledges that his comments were ill-advised in his role as an FIA steward and has apologised. Derek will resume his duties as a steward in the forthcoming Austrian Grand Prix.”
This marks yet another moment of tension between the FIA and figures within the Formula 1 community as the organisation continues to enforce stricter control over how officials interact with the media. Warwick, who has served as a respected steward for several years, is expected to return to duty at the Austrian Grand Prix, having accepted responsibility for his actions.
The suspension has raised broader questions about transparency and accountability in F1 decision-making, especially at a time when the role of stewards and race control is under heightened scrutiny. The FIA’s firm stance underscores its commitment to maintaining impartiality, professionalism, and consistency in officiating across all Formula 1 events.
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