FIA suspends driver steward Warwick over media comments

The FIA has suspended driver steward Derek Warwick from the Canadian Grand Prix weekend for “unauthorized media comments,” replacing him with Enrique Bernoldi.

Warwick discussed topics such as Max Verstappen’s penalty in the Spanish Grand Prix in an interview to a PR company that was then circulated by a gambling brand at the start of this week. Former driver steward Johnny Herbert used to similarly give his opinion through such outlets, but the FIA dropped him at the start of this year, saying his “duties as an FIA steward and that of a media pundit were incompatible.”

Following Warwick’s comments, the FIA moved to make a change for this weekend, but stated that the former Formula 1 driver would return at the next race in Austria.

“Following recent unauthorized media comments, the FIA has taken the decision to suspend Derek Warwick from his duties as driver steward for this weekend’s Canadian Grand Prix,” an FIA statement read. “He will be replaced by Enrique Bernoldi, who will be officiating from the Remote Operations Centre in Geneva for the remainder of the event.

“After discussion, Derek acknowledges that his comments were ill-advised in his role as an FIA steward and has apologized. Derek will resume his duties as a steward in the forthcoming Austrian Grand Prix.”

Sky Sports commentator and former Jordan and McLaren driver Martin Brundle defended Warwick's reputation following news of the suspension.

“Derek Warwick is one of the most genuine and passionate people and racers I have ever known,” Brundle wrote on social media. “He is a salt of the earth genuine guy. He’s done so much for young racers and motorsport in general. Not least as an FIA steward. He has my absolute support and friendship until my last breath.”