Former F1 driver Johnny Herbert won’t be back as a race steward in 2025, with both he and the FIA agreeing to part ways after growing tension over his dual roles.
The split comes as no surprise to many F1 insiders. Herbert had been juggling his duties as both a race official and outspoken TV pundit – a combination that proved increasingly difficult to maintain.
“Johnny is widely respected and brought invaluable experience to his role,” the FIA said in a statement. “However, after discussion, it was mutually agreed that his duties as an FIA steward and media pundit were incompatible.”
It’s quite a turnaround from earlier this week, when Herbert was still scheduled to serve as steward at March’s Australian Grand Prix.
The three-time Grand Prix winner had become a controversial figure in the paddock, particularly in 2024. Many fans and observers pointed to him as an example of what they saw as British bias among officials and media.
His criticism of Max Verstappen‘s driving style didn’t help matters. Herbert often took aim at the three-time world champion’s aggressive approach on track, creating awkward moments when he later had to judge those same racing incidents as a steward.
The FIA’s decision to make a clean break highlights the growing challenge of maintaining neutrality in modern F1, where social media and 24/7 coverage mean every comment gets scrutinized.
The governing body hasn’t yet announced who’ll replace Herbert in the stewards’ room for 2025.
