FIA responds to criticism following appointment of Petrov as steward

The FIA has reacted to the controversial decision to appoint Vitaly Petrov as steward this weekend. The Russian is a subject of discussion because of homophobic statements made by him in the past.

Renault's former racing driver was appointed steward this weekend, but this appointment has been the subject of a lot of criticism. When Lewis Hamilton appeared on the podium with a controversial T-shirt a couple of weeks ago, he said: "If a driver comes out as gay, will he come out with a rainbow flag and force other drivers to become gay too?

Hamilton and many others felt that this statement could not be made and voiced their criticism, even now that Petrov has been appointed steward for the Portuguese Grand Prix. The FIA responds to that criticism as follows: "The FIA appoints driver stewards with relevant Formula 1 experience and expertise to carry out this function at the highest level and who have shown an interest in being a steward with the FIA".

The FIA continues: "The Association does not discriminate in this process on the basis of views expressed outside their function as FIA stewards, provided that such expression is not contrary to FIA regulations and the FIA Code of Ethics".