F1 News
F1 Today | Herbert no longer an FIA steward; Hamilton crashes
Since becoming a FIA steward, there has been a lot of controversy surrounding Johnny Herbert. Decisions that have been made by the former F1 driver have come under criticism, but the reason for his departure from the governing body is because of his interviews conducted with betting companies. Along with that, there have also been teams on the grid who complained about Herbert's interviews during the 2024 season. Along with that news, there was an incident for Lewis Hamiltin during his second TPC test for Ferrari.
Herbert no longer an FIA steward for 2025
Today, it was announced by the FIA that Johnny Herbert will no longer be a F1 steward for the upcoming 2025 season, with the two parties "mutually agreeing' to part ways. "It is with regret that we announce today that Johnny Herbert will no longer fulfil the position of F1 driver steward for the FIA," the sports governing body said.
But the reason for this departure was not to do with any potential controversial decision made while stewarding, but to do with the fact that he was still a "media pundit". The former Sky Sports pundit took part in many interviews for various gambling sites in 2024, and as a result, he will no longer be able to steward any races for the upcoming season.
Teams on the grid complained about Herbert
However, GPblog understands that at least two teams came out and complained about Herbert. There was some displeasure surrounding his dual role of being a steward, but at the same time conducting interviews that broadcast his own opinion.
Red Bull Racing and at least one other unnamed team on the grid complained to the FIA about this. However, this did not alter the decision made by the motorsport federation earlier today.
Hamilton crashes during second TPC test
On the track, more TPC [testing of previous car] sessions were being conducted today, with Ferrari having one around the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya today, meaning Lewis Hamilton got the chance to get some miles in before pre-season testing gets underway in Bahrain.
However, for the seven-time world champion, it was not the smoothest of days. Behind the wheel of the SF-23, Hamilton lost control of his car and ended up in the wall, damaging the aerodynamic and suspension components as a result. Hamilton was okay after the incident.
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