In a stunning shake-up within the world of Formula 1, the FIA has dropped the hammer on longtime race steward Johnny Herbert, citing an “incompatibility” between his officiating duties and his outspoken media career. But beneath the surface of this decision lies a brewing storm—one that may have been fueled by his blunt criticism of Max Verstappen’s aggressive driving style and a deepening divide within the sport’s hierarchy.
Herbert’s shocking dismissal: A clash of power and opinion
For over a decade, Johnny Herbert played a pivotal role as an FIA race steward, bringing his expertise as a former F1 driver to the decision-making table. Simultaneously, he became a familiar face in motorsports media, serving as a sharp-tongued analyst for Sky Sports F1.
However, in an unexpected move, the FIA has severed ties with the 60-year-old, declaring that his dual role created an “incompatibility” with the governing body’s objectives. This decision comes just months after Herbert found himself at odds with Verstappen’s camp—particularly the Dutchman’s father, Jos Verstappen—over his critical stance on Max’s on-track aggression.
Though Herbert consistently maintained that he could separate his work as a steward from his media role, the FIA clearly thought otherwise. The governing body issued a terse statement confirming his dismissal:
“It is with regret that we announce today that Johnny Herbert will no longer fulfill the position of F1 driver steward for the FIA. Johnny is widely respected and brought invaluable experience and expertise to his role. However, after discussion, it was mutually agreed that his duties as an FIA steward and that of a media pundit were incompatible.”
Did the Verstappen feud seal Herbert’s fate?
Herbert’s exit is a bombshell in its own right, but speculation is already running rampant that his public critiques of Verstappen played a major role in his downfall. Herbert was among the few who openly questioned Verstappen’s aggressive driving style, particularly after controversial incidents in 2024.
The tipping point may have been the Mexican Grand Prix, where Verstappen received two 10-second penalties for clashes with Lando Norris—an incident Herbert deemed “unacceptable” at the time. The backlash from Verstappen’s loyal fanbase was immediate, but more crucially, it put him in direct opposition to the Red Bull powerhouse and their allies within the FIA.
The timing of Herbert’s ousting raises eyebrows—especially given the FIA’s past reluctance to discipline figures closely associated with Red Bull. While no official connection has been drawn, the optics of the situation have fueled speculation that Verstappen’s growing influence in the sport may have played a role in pushing Herbert out the door.
Herbert breaks his silence: ‘Tough decisions have to be made’
Following the FIA’s announcement, Herbert took to Instagram to issue a composed yet telling response. While expressing gratitude for his years as a steward, he didn’t shy away from hinting at the internal politics behind the decision:
“I’m very grateful for the opportunity of being an FIA Driver Steward and I have thoroughly enjoyed the role I have been involved in over the years. It is a difficult job and there are tough decisions that have to be made. As stewards, we have and will continue to treat both drivers and team personnel with the utmost respect and remain impartial at all times during all F1 Grand Prix weekends.”
His words, while professional, carry a subtle undertone of frustration. The phrase “tough decisions” and his emphasis on impartiality could be a veiled shot at the FIA’s handling of the situation—suggesting that external forces may have played a role in his dismissal.
What’s next for Herbert? A new chapter with Lola Cars
While his tenure with the FIA may have come to an abrupt end, Herbert is wasting no time moving forward. He has already secured a new role as Global Brand Ambassador for Lola Cars, a legendary racing marque making a bold return to competition in Formula E.
This fresh venture not only keeps Herbert in the motorsports spotlight but also positions him in a fast-growing series that is increasingly becoming a viable alternative to F1. With his candid nature and unfiltered opinions, Herbert’s voice in the racing world isn’t going anywhere—if anything, this departure may allow him to speak even more freely about the power struggles that shape the sport.
Final thoughts: A chilling warning for F1’s future?
The Herbert saga serves as a stark reminder of the shifting power dynamics within Formula 1. If a respected ex-driver can be ousted for speaking his mind, what does this mean for the future of independent voices in the sport?
With Verstappen’s dominance growing, Red Bull’s influence expanding, and the FIA seemingly tightening its grip on dissenting opinions, one has to wonder: Is Formula 1 still a place for fair and independent decision-making, or is it becoming a playground for those who wield the most power?
One thing is certain—Johnny Herbert’s departure is not just the end of an era. It’s the beginning of a larger conversation about who really controls Formula 1’s future.