FIA Parts Ways with Johnny Herbert as F1 Steward
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Synopsis
Johnny Herbert has stepped down as an F1 race steward due to a conflict with his media responsibilities. The FIA announced this decision, expressing gratitude for Herbert's contributions. He is known for his racing career and continued work in media, alongside organizing charitable events.
Key Takeaways
- Johnny Herbert's steward role was deemed incompatible with his media duties.
- Herbert won three Grands Prix during his racing career.
- He worked as a Sky Sports Pundit for a decade.
- Herbert faced scrutiny regarding conflicts of interest.
- He organizes the annual Johnny Herbert Karting Challenge for charity.
New Delhi, Jan 28 (NationPress) Formula One race steward Johnny Herbert will no longer hold his position after a mutual decision deemed his role to be “incompatible” with his media obligations. Herbert, who celebrated victories in three Grands Prix throughout his 160-race journey from 1989 to 2000, spent a decade as a Sky Sports Pundit prior to accepting his steward role. Even after his appointment, the 60-year-old remained active in media, serving as an analyst for various platforms.
“With regret, we announce today that Johnny Herbert will be stepping down from his role as F1 Driver Steward for the FIA. Johnny is highly regarded and has contributed invaluable experience to his position.
“However, following discussions, it was mutually concluded that his responsibilities as an FIA steward conflicted with his role as a media pundit. We extend our gratitude for his service and wish him success in his future endeavors,” the FIA's statement declared.
Herbert was part of the four-member stewards' panel that issued Verstappen two 10-second penalties in Mexico due to incidents involving title contender Lando Norris. After the race, Herbert expressed in an interview with Action Network that he doubted the penalties would prevent Verstappen from forcing Norris off the track again.
He faced significant criticism following the Mexican Grand Prix when Max Verstappen’s father, Jos, commented on the British steward’s interactions with media outlets, suggesting, “The FIA should reevaluate the staffing of the stewards, considering potential conflicts of interest, and Herbert should refrain from speaking to the press.”
From 2012 to 2022, Herbert made regular appearances on the Sky Sports F1 channel. He occasionally participated as one of the insiders in “Sky Race Control” during practice, qualifying, and races alongside Anthony Davidson, Damon Hill, Nico Rosberg, and Paul Di Resta.
Herbert also organizes a charity event known as the Johnny Herbert Karting Challenge annually, benefiting organizations like the Halow Project, now hosted at Capital Karts in London. This event gathers celebrities and professional racers for indoor go-karting, celebrating its 20th anniversary this year.
