BREAKING:FIA suspends F1 Steward following a Controv….Read more
BREAKING:FIA suspends F1 Steward following a Controv….Read more
FIA suspends senior F1 steward with immediate effect following controversial media interview
The FIA has taken swift action by suspending veteran race steward Derek Warwick from the stewarding panel at this weekend’s Canadian Grand Prix, citing “unauthorised media comments” made by the former F1 driver as the reason. Warwick, 70, appeared in an exclusive interview with gambling website Plejmo, during which he expressed opinions about penalties issued to Max Verstappen after the Barcelona Grand Prix and speculated on Lewis Hamilton’s long-term commitment to Ferrari—remarks that the FIA deems inappropriate given his official position .
The controversial interview quickly circulated online, prompting a direct rebuttal from Hamilton, who publicly stated: “There’s zero doubts, so please stop making stuff up” . In response, the FIA confirmed Warwick’s immediate suspension, announcing that he will be replaced by former F1 driver Enrique Bernoldi, who will operate remotely from the FIA’s operations centre in Geneva for the duration of the Canadian event .
Warwick has since issued an apology, acknowledging that his public commentary crossed a line for someone serving in an official FIA capacity and stating that he “accepts responsibility” for his actions . The FIA emphasized that he will return to stewarding duties at the Austrian Grand Prix, marking his suspension as temporary .
This incident underscores increasing scrutiny of FIA officials engaging in media roles. It echoes last season’s resignation of steward Johnny Herbert following similar concerns over punditry conflicts . As stewards play a vital role in enforcing regulations independently, the FIA’s zero‑tolerance stance on external commentary reflects its commitment to maintaining the integrity and impartiality of race officiating.
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