The 2024 Formula 1 season was not just about thrilling on-track action—it was also marked by growing discontent over the FIA’s inconsistent rulings. Among the loudest voices calling for change is Jos Verstappen, father of four-time world champion Max Verstappen, who demanded more consistency from the governing body and F1 leadership.
In a year where controversial penalties and inconsistent stewarding decisions frequently stole headlines, Jos Verstappen directly addressed F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali, urging the sport to adopt a more structured approach to race officiating.
Consistency Above All
Jos Verstappen criticized the FIA’s current stewarding system, emphasizing the need for permanent stewards who can deliver consistent decisions. He argued that rotating stewards lead to varied interpretations of rules, which frustrates drivers and teams.
“I also discussed this with Stefano Domenicali. The stewards simply have to punish consistently. The same for everyone.”
A Call for Independent Stewards
The former F1 driver also proposed that the sport should move away from appointing ex-drivers as stewards, suggesting instead that neutral, independent individuals should take on the role. His reasoning? Former drivers might bring personal biases or vested interests into their decisions, which could undermine the fairness of rulings.
“It would help if there was a permanent pool of stewards. And no more former Formula 1 drivers, but just people who have more distance and fewer interests, but who at the same time understand what the sport entails. With the same stewards every time, you will also get more of the same decisions. More consistency, that is simply better.”
Criticism of the 2024 Season’s Controversial Rulings
Jos Verstappen didn’t hold back in criticizing specific incidents from the 2024 season. From questionable time penalties to Max Verstappen’s community service punishment for swearing during a press conference, he highlighted the apparent inconsistencies in the FIA’s decision-making.
“The stewards don’t know what to do anymore. I think there should be stricter rules in that area. Not one time a five-second time penalty and the next time a ten-second time penalty for the same offence. And why did Max get a community service order for the word F*ck and another a fine?”
These comments echo a broader sentiment across the paddock that the FIA’s handling of penalties lacked clarity and fairness, often leaving drivers and teams confused about the boundaries of acceptable behavior and driving standards.
FIA’s Defense: Lack of Funds for Permanent Stewards
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem recently pushed back on the idea of permanent stewards, citing a lack of funds as the primary barrier. However, Jos Verstappen and others argue that the cost is a small price to pay for a more transparent and fair competition.
Looking Ahead to 2025
Despite the controversies, the 2024 F1 season was celebrated for its competitive edge, with multiple teams battling for the Constructors’ Championship until the very last race. Fans are optimistic that the 2025 season will build on this momentum, but the question of consistent stewarding will remain a critical issue for the sport to address.
With new team and driver lineups, alongside rising stars like Gabriel Bortoleto and Kimi Antonelli, the coming season promises excitement—but only if the FIA can ensure fair and consistent rulings across the grid. As Jos Verstappen put it, consistency isn’t just important; it’s essential for the integrity of Formula 1.
