FIA steward Derek Warwick has been suspended for one race following his controversial comments about Max Verstappen. Like former colleague Johnny Herbert, he shared his views on a betting platform about, among other things, the time penalty Verstappen received in Barcelona. George Russell has defended Warwick, stating that he did not offend anyone. He also emphasized that FIA stewards still operate on a voluntary basis. According to the Brit, any further suspension would be ‘excessive’.
Warwick came under fire after the Spanish Grand Prix. On a betting website, he openly discussed Formula 1 and stated that the time penalty for Max Verstappen was justified. He also discussed Lewis Hamilton‘s situation at Ferrari and said that the seven-time world champion is entitled to an eighth title. Comments like these are problematic, as FIA stewards are expected to maintain neutrality in the media. Johnny Herbert had previously experienced this, having to step down from his steward role due to similar side activities.
Everything is under scrutiny
The FIA decided to impose a one-time suspension on Warwick. The organization also reported that he has apologized and will be active again as a steward during the Austrian GP. After the qualifying in Montreal, Mercedes driver George Russell was asked about the suspension. “You know, we are all free to express our opinions,” he responded. “I don’t think Derek offended anyone with his comments. That’s why we’ll see him back. Nowadays, every word you say is put under a microscope – that’s just part of this sport.”
Russell also showed understanding for Warwick’s position and his media appearances: “We must not forget that the stewards are volunteers,” he emphasized. “They are not paid for it and therefore also have a life outside of Formula 1. We all speak with media in the paddock, so yes – if it had been more than a temporary suspension, that would have been quite excessive in my opinion.”
