Last month, Johnny Herbert, a former FIA steward, found himself ousted from his role within Formula 1’s governing body. He believes his surprising exit was less about internal FIA issues and more about external influences on President Mohammed Ben Sulayem.
Herbert feels the real trigger for his dismissal was outside chatter rather than any internal concerns. Officially, the FIA cited his dual roles as a steward and media pundit as “incompatible.” Oddly, this came well after his last run as a steward at the Mexico City Grand Prix, where he handed down two 10-second penalties to Red Bull’s Max Verstappen following incidents with McLaren’s Lando Norris.
This decision did not sit well with Max’s father, Jos Verstappen, who criticized the FIA, implying potential bias and calling for scrutiny over who serves as stewards and ensuring no conflict of interest exists.
In recent discussions with CasinoApps.com, Herbert alleged that lobbying from external sources, potentially tied to the Verstappen camp, influenced Ben Sulayem’s decision. He said, “Certain people spoke to Mohammed Ben Sulayem about letting me go. The initial push didn’t originate from inside the FIA—it was all about the chatter to the FIA that changed their stance.”
Herbert recounted that everything he did throughout 2024 was discussed and approved. Just days before his phone call dismissal, he was under the impression that everything was set for 2025. Yet, the narrative shifted abruptly.
While he understands the sequence of events, Herbert refrains from singling out individuals directly. He notes that pressure from particular quarters led to this unfortunate decision.
Addressing accusations of British bias, particularly those from Jos Verstappen, Herbert questioned, “The Verstappens keep hinting there’s a bias. I see these comments and think, ‘So I can’t support a British driver just because I’m British?’ Supporting Lewis, George, or Lando isn’t wrong. But apparently, it’s acceptable to criticize Brits from the other side.”
He elaborated, “As a Dutchman, Jos can criticize the Brits and suggest they lack morals as race fans. Isn’t fairness supposed to go both ways?”
Despite his departure, Herbert holds no ill will. While initially disheartening, he emphasizes his commitment to fairness in his stewarding duties.
Herbert also commented on the changing landscape within the FIA. He cited the recent exclusion of British figures Robert Reid and David Richards from a World Motor Sport Council meeting for their refusal to sign NDAs. “The FIA seems more controlling now, handling matters with a heavier hand,” remarked the three-time Grand Prix victor.
He noted, “Dave Richards wasn’t allowed into the World Motor Sport Council meeting since he wouldn’t sign an NDA. That’s new—something becoming more commonplace but unconventional till now.”
Herbert’s reflection paints a picture of an increasingly rigid FIA. His experience hints at a larger shift within the organization, suggesting his dismissal might just be part of a broader wave of change. Stay updated with all the latest F1 developments on X and Facebook.
