F1 commentator and former driver Johnny Herbert has addressed the recent news that he’s been dropped from his role as an FIA steward for the upcoming season.

The 60-year-old revealed that he never let personal bias affect his judgment, following his removal from the role this week due to concerns about his media work being “incompatible” with his responsibilities.

Conflict Between Media Work and Steward Role

Herbert’s departure comes after his media presence, including his work with betting websites and public opinions on F1 controversies, sparked discontent within the paddock.

This has been a point of contention for some time, especially after last season’s controversial moments where world champion Max Verstappen was penalized for an incident involving McLaren’s Lando Norris in Mexico.

Verstappen himself had previously suggested there were individuals in F1 who were “biased” against him, and many believed Herbert to be one of them.

Herbert had worked with Sky Sports until 2023 and had continued as a steward in F1, making his comments about Verstappen’s driving style particularly notable in the fallout.

Despite being expected to return for the 2025 season starting with the Australian Grand Prix in March, it became clear that his media role and the impartiality required of an FIA steward were at odds.

Herbert Defends His Integrity

In his statement, Herbert expressed gratitude for the opportunities given to him throughout his time with the FIA, saying he “thoroughly enjoyed” the role, despite the challenging nature of the decisions stewards are tasked with.

He emphasized that he and other stewards always strive to treat both drivers and team personnel with respect and remain impartial, stressing that his decision-making never allowed bias to influence his judgment.

Herbert’s comments seemed to hint at his frustration with the situation, perhaps even as a parting shot aimed at Verstappen, given the tension between the two.

“We have and will continue to treat both drivers and team personnel with the utmost respect,” Herbert stated.

“I’m very grateful to the president and everyone at the FIA for the opportunities that I have been given.”

FIA Official Statement on Herbert’s Departure

The FIA also released a statement confirming Herbert’s departure, explaining that while he was highly respected and brought invaluable experience, it was agreed that his dual roles as a pundit and FIA steward were not compatible.

The governing body thanked him for his service and wished him well in his future endeavors.

The Controversy Surrounding Verstappen’s Driving Style

The tension between Herbert and Verstappen dates back to the 2024 Mexican Grand Prix, where Verstappen received a 20-second penalty for forcing Norris off the track.

Herbert publicly criticized Verstappen’s aggressive driving, calling it “harsh” and questioning his “horrible mindset” during such moments.

The comments didn’t sit well with Verstappen, who has defended his approach on the track.

Herbert’s disappointment was clear when he spoke about Verstappen’s actions in Mexico: “It’s an absolute no-no from me, current drivers, former drivers, and stewards.

I’m such a big fan of Verstappen, and it frustrates me massively when he drives the way he did in Mexico.

He doesn’t need to do it.

He’s so good in the cockpit, and at this point in the championship, he just needs to stay out of trouble.”

Herbert continued, “When Verstappen goes into this horrible mindset of trying to gain an advantage by taking a fellow driver off the race track, that’s where he needs to know he doesn’t have to do that.

Just win in the cleanest possible way you can.”

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

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