McLaren’s Zak Brown is pushing for full-time F1 stewards, insisting that teams should contribute financially to professionalize race officiating. Meanwhile, Johnny Herbert has been dropped as an FIA steward, reportedly following tensions with Max Verstappen and his father Jos.
Brown: F1 Needs Full-Time Stewards—And McLaren Will Pay Its Share
Despite being a multi-billion-dollar sport, F1 still relies on unpaid volunteer stewards, with officials rotating race-to-race under FIA oversight. McLaren CEO Zak Brown believes that’s an outdated system, and he’s willing to pay up to fix it.
“I don’t think we’re set up for success by not having full-time stewards,” Brown said at the Autosport Business Exchange in London.
“If all teams contribute, it won’t break the bank. I think it’s so important for the sport.”
Johnny Herbert Ousted as F1 Steward After Verstappen Controversy
While Brown advocates for stability in stewarding, the FIA has just removed Johnny Herbert—a former F1 driver and respected pundit—from his role as a race steward.
The decision follows a tense 2024 season, where Herbert’s officiating infuriated Max Verstappen and his father Jos.
Herbert vs. Verstappen: The Mexico City Fallout
Herbert was one of the stewards in Mexico City last season, where he handed Verstappen two 10-second penalties for aggressive moves against Lando Norris.
After the race, Herbert publicly criticized Verstappen’s driving style, calling it “harsh” and claiming that penalties wouldn’t change his behavior.
“Those penalties in Mexico won’t stop Max Verstappen from pushing Lando Norris off the track in the future.”
“I am such a big fan of Verstappen, and it frustrates me massively when he drives the way he did in Mexico.”
FIA’s Official Statement: Herbert’s Role ‘Incompatible’ with Media Work
The FIA officially announced Herbert’s departure, citing his dual role as both a steward and a media pundit as an issue.
“After discussion, it was mutually agreed that his duties as an FIA steward and that of a media pundit were incompatible.”
The 60-year-old Brit has not yet commented on the decision, but he continues to share opinions through media outlets, including betting websites.
What’s Next for F1 Officiating?
- Will F1 finally adopt full-time professional stewards?
- Is the FIA making an example out of Herbert after Verstappen’s complaints?
- Will Brown’s push for steward reform gain support from other teams?
With the 2025 F1 season fast approaching, off-track drama continues to overshadow the racing—and officiating remains a hot-button issue.
🚨 Stay tuned for updates on the future of F1 stewarding!
