Sainz Advocates for Permanent Stewards in Formula 1
Carlos Sainz has voiced his support for the implementation of permanent stewards in Formula 1, arguing that such a measure would enhance consistency in decision-making. His comments follow a recent incident during the Dutch Grand Prix, where he received a 10-second penalty for causing a collision with Liam Lawson—a decision that was later overturned upon review.
Sainz emphasized the unpredictability of steward decisions, stating, “I don’t know how they approach each situation,” referring to instances where stewards opt for immediate rulings versus post-race reviews. He pointed out the pressure drivers and media put on stewards to deliver immediate verdicts, which can lead to uneven decision-making. “When you work every race with different referees, it’s very difficult to know and understand if it’s coming or not,” he noted.
While Sainz advocates for permanent stewards, he acknowledged opposing views from other drivers regarding the potential for bias. He cited the example of sports like football, where varied referees are the norm, suggesting that fear of favoritism could influence opinions against a permanent stewarding system.
Conversing positively about the current race director, Rui Marques, Sainz stated, “I see the benefits that that gives to the sport and the development of the relationship.” He expressed satisfaction with how the review of his penalty was handled, recognizing the stewards’ willingness to engage in dialogue and reconsider their initial ruling. “The fact that they took the opportunity to revert or cancel the penalty points and the penalty itself is a good sign,” he remarked.
Sainz concluded by acknowledging that while each case should be judged on its merits, clear mechanisms for review, as demonstrated in his situation, represent a constructive step forward in maintaining fairness in the sport.
