Suspension of FIA Steward Derek Warwick

This briefing document summarises the key reasons and implications surrounding the recent suspension of FIA steward Derek Warwick from his duties at the Canadian Grand Prix.

Main Themes:

• Impartiality of Stewards: The primary theme is the FIA’s emphasis on maintaining the impartiality of its stewards. Public comments made by stewards, particularly those critical of drivers or their actions, are deemed incompatible with their role.
• Media Conduct of Stewards: The suspension highlights the strict guidelines regarding media engagement for FIA officials, particularly stewards, who are expected to uphold a neutral and professional demeanour.
• FIA’s Enforcement of Policy: The FIA has demonstrated its willingness to enforce its policies regarding steward conduct, as evidenced by Warwick’s suspension and the previous termination of Johnny Herbert’s stewardship for similar reasons.

Most Important Ideas/Facts:

• Reasons for Suspension: Derek Warwick was suspended from his duties as a steward for the Canadian Grand Prix due to “unauthorised comments” made in the media. The FIA deemed these comments “incompatible with his role as a steward.”
• Specific Examples of Comments: Warwick’s problematic comments included:
• Stating that Yuki Tsunoda has “had a disaster this season.”
• Describing Lando Norris’s actions as “silly mistakes” that “might be a barrier to him claiming the world championship this year.”
• Asserting that Max Verstappen was “absolutely wrong in the way that he drove alongside George Russell at the last race in Barcelona.”
• Suggesting that “people were probably right to suggest Vistappen should have received a race ban as a result.”
• Precedent for Action: This is not an isolated incident. The FIA “also ended Johnny Herbert’s time as a steward because they thought his comments in the media also did not sit well with the impartiality of that position.” This demonstrates a consistent policy.
• Interim Replacement: During Warwick’s suspension, Enrique Bernaldi, the designated driver steward for the event, will operate remotely from the FIA’s officiating centre in Geneva to fulfil the role for the remainder of the Canadian Grand Prix.
• Warwick’s Acknowledgment and Apology: Following discussion with the FIA, “Derek Warrick has acknowledged that his comments were ill- advised in his role as a steward and he has apologized.” This suggests a recognition of the breach of conduct.
• Duration of Suspension: The suspension is temporary. The FIA has confirmed that “Warwick will resume his duties as a steward at the next Grand Prix in Austria in a fortnight.” This indicates a disciplinary measure rather than a permanent removal.