Johnny Herbert speaks out after being ousted as FIA steward
Johnny Herbert issues a statement following his ouster as FIA commissioner ahead of the 2025 F1 season.
On Wednesday, the FIA announced the dismissal of Johnny Herbert, citing his consulting work as one of the main reasons for this decision.
Although Johnny Herbert has not served as a TV analyst for Sky Sports since the end of 2022, the former British F1 driver has often made headlines for his stances over the past 12 months.
Last year, Johnny Herbert notably criticized Max Verstappen’s driving style and his intimidation tactics, which annoyed Jos Verstappen, who questioned whether a steward could speak so openly in public.
As the new season approaches, the FIA has taken measures and has ended Johnny Herbert’s duties.
Also read: Johnny Herbert will no longer hold the position of driver steward in F1
Johnny Herbert’s statement
Johnny Herbert reacted to the news on Instagram.
He wrote: « I am very grateful to have had the opportunity to be a driving steward for the FIA and have greatly enjoyed this role over the years. It is a difficult job that involves making complicated decisions. As stewards, we have always treated and will continue to treat the drivers and team personnel with the utmost respect, while remaining impartial during each Grand Prix weekend.
Finally, I am very grateful to the President and the entire FIA team for the opportunities that have been given to me.
Johnny Herbert criticizes Max Verstappen
Johnny Herbert had been particularly scathing after the Mexico Grand Prix, where Max Verstappen received two 10-second penalties for incidents with his title rival, Lando Norris.
Johnny Herbert had then declared: « These penalties in Mexico won’t stop Max Verstappen from pushing Lando Norris off the track in the future. His intention was clearly to help Ferrari achieve a one-two. I think that’s exactly what Verstappen wanted and tried to do. I understand why he did it, but I don’t agree, and I don’t think many people do. »
« ‘Fair racing’ is a concept that Norris has already mentioned, and it’s the type of battle he wants to have. I don’t see Verstappen changing his driving style, as his number one goal is to prevent Norris from closing the championship gap. We probably still have many exciting races to come. »
Remarks that had elicited reactions from many people.
