Former FIA race steward, Johnny Herbert, recently made headlines for criticizing Formula 1’s governing body and responding to accusations of bias. One month ago, Herbert was removed from his role as an F1 steward by the FIA, citing conflicting duties as a steward and a media pundit. This decision came following his involvement in a controversy during the Mexico Grand Prix where Max Verstappen received two 10-second penalties for incidents with Lando Norris.
Herbert’s Response to Accusations
In a recent interview with CasinoApps.com, Herbert shed light on the circumstances surrounding his dismissal. He revealed that certain individuals had influenced FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem to terminate his position. Despite having received assurances about his role for the following year, Herbert was blindsided by the sudden change in decision just two days before his dismissal.
Reflecting on the accusations of bias, particularly from the Verstappen camp, Herbert expressed his frustration. He highlighted the absurdity of being accused of favoritism towards British drivers simply because of his nationality. He emphasized his commitment to impartiality and professionalism in his role as an FIA steward, dismissing claims of any personal bias.
Concerns Over FIA’s Control
Herbert also weighed in on the growing concerns regarding the FIA’s control and management practices. He raised issues about non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) being imposed on members of the World Motor Sport Council, citing the exclusion of prominent figures like Robert Reid and David Richards for refusing to sign NDAs. Herbert criticized the FIA for adopting a more controlling and heavy-handed approach in its dealings, signaling a shift in the organization’s governance style.
Acknowledging the evolving landscape within the FIA, Herbert expressed his reservations about the increasing reliance on NDAs and confidentiality agreements. He highlighted the exclusion of experienced figures like Dave Richards, who have been integral to the motorsport community for decades, as a concerning trend. Herbert’s comments underscored the broader implications of these restrictive practices on transparency and accountability within the FIA.
As Johnny Herbert navigates the aftermath of his departure from the FIA, his insights shed light on the complex dynamics at play within Formula 1’s regulatory body. His candid reflections on bias accusations, organizational control, and governance practices offer a glimpse into the inner workings of the sport’s governing institutions. In an environment where scrutiny and speculation abound, Herbert’s perspective serves as a valuable contribution to the ongoing discourse surrounding F1’s regulatory landscape.
