F1 Star Reveals Shock Last-minute Sacking Over Phone Call

F1 Star Reveals Shock Last-minute Sacking Over Phone Call

In a surprising turn of events ahead of the 2025 Formula 1 season, former F1 driver and long-serving FIA steward Johnny Herbert revealed that his dismissal came via a last-minute phone call, just as he was preparing for his duties in the upcoming season. Herbert, who had been an integral part of the FIA’s stewarding panel for 15 years, expressed his astonishment at the abrupt decision.

Herbert’s exit stems from concerns about a potential conflict of interest between his roles as an FIA steward and a media pundit. The FIA stated that these dual roles were “incompatible,” leading to his removal from the stewarding position. This decision followed incidents during the 2024 season where Herbert, serving as a steward, was involved in penalizing reigning world champion Max Verstappen at the Mexican Grand Prix. Subsequently, Herbert commented on these decisions in media outlets associated with betting companies, raising questions about impartiality. FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem emphasized that while Herbert was a valued commissioner, the overlap of his media engagements with his official duties presented a conflict, necessitating his departure.

Reflecting on the sequence of events leading to his dismissal, Herbert mentioned that just two days prior to the termination call, he had been assured of his position for the 2025 season. He acknowledged that external discussions influenced the FIA’s change of stance but refrained from pointing fingers, indicating that certain individuals had communicated with the FIA President, leading to the final decision.

This development is part of broader changes within the FIA’s organizational structure and the regulatory landscape of Formula 1. Notably, the FIA has decided to abolish the bonus point awarded for the fastest lap in a Grand Prix starting from the 2025 season. This rule, introduced in 2019 to add excitement to races, had been exploited by teams with sufficient gaps to make extra pit stops, thereby securing the fastest lap without genuine on-track battles. The decision to remove this point aims to enhance competitive fairness and ensure that race outcomes are determined more by strategy and driver skill than by such tactical maneuvers.

Additionally, the FIA has introduced stricter penalties for driver misconduct, including the use of foul language. This move towards greater accountability was highlighted during the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix when Max Verstappen received the first punishment under these tightened regulations. The increased fines and potential race bans underscore the FIA’s commitment to maintaining professionalism and respect within the sport.

The removal of Herbert and the introduction of these regulatory changes reflect the FIA’s efforts to adapt and refine the governance of Formula 1. By addressing potential conflicts of interest and ensuring that rules promote fair competition, the FIA aims to uphold the integrity of the sport as it evolves. As the 2025 season approaches, teams and drivers will need to navigate this updated landscape, balancing competitive ambitions with adherence to the sport’s regulations and ethical standards.