FIA Suspends Derek Warwick as Driver Steward for Canadian Grand Prix
The FIA has suspended former Formula 1 driver Derek Warwick from his duties as a driver steward, effective immediately on the eve of the Canadian Grand Prix. This decision arose from an interview Warwick conducted regarding the recent penalty imposed on Max Verstappen at the Spanish Grand Prix, where Verstappen received a 10-second penalty and three penalty points for a collision with George Russell.
In a statement, the FIA cited Warwick’s "unauthorised media comments" as the reason for his suspension. Warwick’s remarks criticized the steward’s decision, stating, "Should he have done what he did with George Russell in Turn 5? Absolutely not. Did he get a penalty for it? Yes." He also mentioned potential considerations for a harsher penalty, saying, “Many would say he should have received a race ban… and they’re probably right."
Warwick was not part of the steward panel that issued the penalty, which consisted of David Domingo, Vitantonio Liuzzi, Matthew Selley, and Nish Shetty. His comments also breached FIA protocol by publicly critiquing another steward’s ruling, which the organization deems detrimental to its integrity.
The FIA has appointed Enrique Bernoldi to assume Warwick’s stewarding responsibilities for the Canadian race, while Warwick will resume his role at the upcoming Austrian Grand Prix.
Warwick has acknowledged his misstep, indicating his regrets over his comments and has issued an apology. He has served as an FIA steward for 15 years, participating in numerous events this season, including the Miami Grand Prix prior to his suspension.
