Former F1 driver turned FIA steward Johnny Herbert has pushed back against the criticism often directed at the sport’s officiating, emphasizing that respect between the officials and drivers remains intact despite some recent high-profile controversies.
Herbert’s comments come on the heels of a particularly contentious end to the 2024 F1 season, where decisions by the governing body’s stewards became a lightning rod for debate.
Among the incidents in question was Max Verstappen’s robust defending against Lando Norris at the United States Grand Prix, which initially went unpunished but later prompted a re-evaluation of the racing rules.
Verstappen was subsequently hit with two 10-second penalties in Mexico for shoving Norris off track.
The penalties sparked heated reactions, including pointed criticism from Verstappen himself, who labeled the stewards as “idiots” after receiving another time penalty for spinning McLaren’s Oscar Piastri during the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Adding to the tension, Verstappen’s father, Jos Verstappen, accused Herbert of harboring a “conflict of interest” after the Mexican Grand Prix decisions.
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Despite these accusations and the Red Bull camp’s vocal frustrations, Herbert has maintained that relationships within the paddock remain professional and respectful.
“The drivers are more unified than ever as well as a pack. They are very opinionated,” Herbert said in an interview with CoinPoker.
“I haven’t seen such a togetherness for more than 30 years. It is good that they do have a say. The more they do the more they get listened to. It is important that they are.”
Herbert dismissed suggestions of lasting animosity rooted in the stewards’ decisions, emphasizing the transient nature of paddock disagreements.
“Within the paddock you just move on. Yes, you have your disagreements and frustrations but you just move on. That’s the only way. There is no lingering animosity with drivers or their fathers,” he said.
Reflecting on the challenges of officiating in a high-pressure environment like Formula 1, Herbert acknowledged the inherent difficulties but noted that respect persists despite occasional flare-ups.
“Everyone knows being a steward is a difficult job,” the Briton said. “I have not felt it has impacted on any relationships I have in the paddock. Everyone has enough respect for each other.”
Herbert’s perspective underscores the delicate balance stewards must maintain as they navigate the fine line between enforcing the rules and managing the emotions of drivers, teams, and fans.
While criticism will likely continue as long as racing remains competitive and intense, Herbert’s assurance of mutual respect offers a reminder of the professionalism that underpins the sport.
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