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FIA Drops Johnny Herbert Over Media Ties—Christian Horner Calls It “The Right Decision, nothing to do with Verstappen”

Publisher by Publisher
January 31, 2025
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 3 mins read
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FIA Drops Johnny Herbert Over Media Ties—Christian Horner Calls It “The Right Decision, nothing to do with Verstappen”

ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES - DECEMBER 08: Max Verstappen of the Netherlands and Oracle Red Bull Racing and race engineer Gianpiero Lambiase talk on the grid during the F1 Grand Prix of Abu Dhabi at Yas Marina Circuit on December 08, 2024 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202412080307 // Usage for editorial use only //

The FIA’s decision to part ways with former F1 driver Johnny Herbert has reignited a long-standing debate over Formula 1’s stewarding system. The governing body cited a conflict of interest between Herbert’s race stewarding role and his work with betting sites, calling it “incompatible” with the integrity of officiating.

While Herbert was involved in controversial decisions during the 2024 Mexico City Grand Prix—where Max Verstappen received two 10-second penalties for clashes with Lando Norris—Red Bull boss Christian Horner insists that Verstappen had nothing to do with the FIA’s call.

But Horner didn’t just support the move—he slammed the idea of stewards working in media altogether, calling it a “totally inappropriate” conflict of interest.

Horner: “You Can’t Have a Foot in Both Camps”

Speaking to Sky Sports News at the Autosport Awards, Horner made it clear that he agrees with the FIA’s decision.

“Firstly, it has absolutely nothing to do with Max,” Horner said, shutting down any speculation that Verstappen’s Mexico penalties played a role in Herbert’s dismissal.

But he didn’t stop there. Horner took aim at F1’s current stewarding system, arguing that officials should not be involved in media roles.

“You cannot have stewards working in the media,” Horner asserted. “You don’t have it in the Premiership, you don’t have it in any other form of professional sport.”

“It’s totally inappropriate. You’re either on the sporting regulatory side or you’re on the media side. You can’t have a foot in both camps.”

Horner’s frustration touches on a growing issue in F1—the inconsistency of stewarding decisions.

The Bigger Issue: F1’s Flawed Stewarding System

The FIA’s use of rotating stewards has long been criticized for inconsistency. Unlike other major sports leagues, where officials are full-time professionals, F1 relies on a mix of volunteers and former motorsport figures—a system that often leads to erratic penalties and unpredictable rulings.

Herbert’s exit has once again sparked calls for a permanent stewarding body, something teams and drivers have pushed for over the years.

Zak Brown Offers to Help Fund Permanent Stewards

McLaren CEO Zak Brown has been among the most vocal critics of F1’s current officiating structure.

In response to the Herbert situation, Brown recently proposed that F1 teams contribute financially to fund permanent stewards, rather than relying on a rotating cast of officials.

“If cost is the problem, McLaren is willing to put up part of the money,” Brown reportedly suggested, adding that he would encourage other teams to chip in as well.

So far, the FIA has resisted the idea, citing cost and logistical challenges, but as the controversy over stewarding continues to grow, pressure is mounting for F1 to rethink its approach.

What Happens Next?

With Herbert out and the stewarding system under renewed scrutiny, the FIA faces a critical moment.

  • Will they reconsider a permanent panel of stewards?
  • Will other media-affiliated officials be forced out?
  • Could teams like McLaren force the issue by offering financial support?

One thing is certain: The debate over F1’s officiating is far from over.

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