Formula 1 Stewards Panels Expanded for Six Races in 2025
The Formula 1 landscape is set to undergo a significant change in the upcoming 2025 season, as stewards’ panels will now feature four officials instead of the traditional three at select high-workload events. This transformation, detailed in Article 15.1 of F1’s 2025 sporting rules, marks a departure from the longstanding setup that has been in place for years. The alterations have been strategically implemented just in time for the season opener in Australia, signaling a new era in F1 officiating.
Traditionally, F1 stewarding panels have been comprised of three officials, with one member typically being a former racer to provide valuable insights from a driver’s perspective during incident rulings. Additionally, each panel includes a steward appointed by the national sporting authority overseeing the race, ensuring a fair and impartial decision-making process. However, Article 15.1 now stipulates that a minimum of three and a maximum of four stewards, with one designated as the chairman, will preside over each race. These individuals must hold an FIA Super Licence, distinct from those earned by F1 drivers, to qualify for their roles.
The expansion of the stewards’ panels is a targeted effort by the FIA to bolster capacity and resources at events where a heavier workload is anticipated. By introducing an additional member to the panel, initial reviews and evidence collection can be streamlined to facilitate more efficient incident resolution. It is important to note that while the panel will have an extra member, all decisions will still be made collectively, with the chairperson leading the deliberations at each race.
As the 2025 season approaches, discussions surrounding F1 stewarding practices continue to spark debate within the motorsport community. Last year, concerns were raised over the reliance on unpaid volunteers to serve as stewards, with limited compensation provided for their time and expertise. FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has expressed openness to the idea of permanent stewards, acknowledging the need for a sustainable approach to officiating. However, the question of funding remains a key consideration, with stakeholders weighing in on the financial implications of such a transition.
During the Autosport Business Exchange in London earlier this year, McLaren boss Zak Brown voiced support for a collaborative effort among racing teams to contribute to the stewarding process. Emphasizing the importance of maintaining the sport’s integrity, Brown highlighted the value of upholding existing practices while exploring opportunities for long-term improvements. The ongoing dialogue surrounding stewarding reflects a broader commitment to enhancing transparency and accountability in Formula 1.
In a recent development, ex-F1 racer Johnny Herbert was removed from the FIA’s stewarding pool due to conflicting media engagements related to betting companies. Herbert’s public commentary on decisions involving drivers like Max Verstappen raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest, prompting a reevaluation of stewarding protocols. The incident underscored the need for clear guidelines and ethical standards in stewarding, reinforcing the importance of upholding the sport’s credibility.
As the F1 community prepares for the 2025 season, the expanded stewards’ panels signal a proactive approach to addressing evolving challenges in officiating. By adapting to the demands of a dynamic racing environment, Formula 1 is poised to enhance the quality and fairness of competition, setting the stage for an exciting and competitive season ahead.
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