Mercedes driver George Russell expressed support for the one-race ban handed to FIA steward Derek Warwick after his controversial media remarks. Russell stated that anything beyond this temporary suspension would have been excessive, emphasizing the need for balance in judging Warwick’s actions.
Warwick, a veteran steward and former driver with four Grand Prix podiums, was suspended from his duties at the 2024 Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal due to comments he made in recent interviews that drew criticism.
Details Behind Warwick’s Suspension
The FIA took the decision to relieve Derek Warwick from stewarding duties for the Canadian Grand Prix following unauthorized media statements he made. His remarks included criticisms directed at drivers such as Lando Norris, Lance Stroll, and Yuki Tsunoda, which were initially disseminated by a gambling company and quickly spread online.
Additionally, Warwick commented on a collision involving Max Verstappen and George Russell at the Spanish Grand Prix, where Verstappen received a 10-place grid penalty and penalty points from the stewards—although Warwick was not part of that stewarding panel.
An FIA statement confirmed Warwick’s suspension and announced that Enrique Bernoldi would replace him, overseeing steward duties remotely from the Geneva Operations Centre during the event.
Warwick’s Response and Upcoming Return
Following discussions with the FIA, Warwick acknowledged that his comments were inappropriate in his role as a steward and issued an apology. He is set to return to stewarding at the upcoming Austrian Grand Prix, marking the end of his temporary ban.
Russell’s Perspective on the Situation
During the post-qualifying press conference in Montreal, where Russell claimed pole position, he addressed Warwick’s suspension. He acknowledged the freedom to hold personal opinions but suggested Warwick’s remarks were unlikely to have offended anyone seriously.
“We’re obviously all open to have our own views,”
said Russell.
And I think what Derek said, I don’t think it probably offended anybody, hence why we’re going to see him back. And principally, I think, these days every word you say gets scrutinised.
He added that stewards volunteer their time without payment and have lives outside of Formula 1, explaining,
They have a life outside of Formula 1 as well. We all speak to media in the paddock. So, if it was anything more than his sort of temporary, I don’t want to say ban, but his temporary avoidance of stewarding this weekend, I think anything more than that would have been a bit OTT.
Contrasting Cases of Stewarding Suspensions
Russell’s comments contrast with the situation involving Johnny Herbert, who was permanently removed from stewarding duties earlier in the year for similar media-related issues. This highlights differing consequences for stewards depending on the nature and context of their remarks and conduct.
Significance and Future Implications
The incident underscores the increasing scrutiny on the statements made by those involved in Formula 1 stewarding roles. It raises important questions about the balance between personal expression and professional responsibilities in high-profile, volunteer positions. Warwick’s suspension and subsequent return may set a precedent for how similar situations are handled going forward, with an emphasis on measured disciplinary actions that recognize the voluntary nature of steward roles while maintaining the sport’s integrity.