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Formula 1 is set to adjust its stewarding panels, increasing their size from three to four officials for six specially designated events considered to have high workload by the FIA. This development, as reported by Motorsport.com, is part of the revisions outlined in Article 15.1 of the sporting regulations for the 2025 season, which have undergone significant changes ahead of the new season.
Traditionally, F1 stewarding panels have consisted of three members, including a former racer to offer a driver’s perspective during incident rulings, alongside one steward designated by the national sporting authority (ASN) overseeing each respective race.
The new regulation states that panels will now include “a minimum of three and a maximum of four stewards, one of whom will be appointed as the chairman” from those holding an FIA Super Licence, which is different from the licenses obtained by Formula 1 drivers.
However, the expansion will only be implemented at six selected events that the FIA categorizes as having a high workload, based on historical data from previous races at those venues. The races identified for this enhanced stewarding are set to take place in Australia, China, Canada, Singapore, Mexico, and Brazil in 2025, while the remaining 18 events will continue with the standard three-member panels.
This modification aims to bolster the capacity and resources available during these critical races, allowing the additional member to conduct initial reviews and gather evidence post-incident. It is important to note that all final decisions will still be made by the complete panel, with no added authority for the extra steward, and a chairperson will be appointed for each race as usual.
The issue of stewarding in Formula 1 remains a contentious topic as the 2025 season approaches. Past seasons have seen significant debate among drivers and fans about the reliance on unpaid volunteers in steward roles. These individuals are typically compensated solely for travel expenses while being responsible for addressing racing incidents and enforcing FIA compliance codes.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has expressed a willingness to consider the employment of permanent stewards, although he raised the issue of funding, highlighting that drivers are resistant to covering these costs. Meanwhile, McLaren’s team principal, Zak Brown, suggested that all teams, including McLaren, should be willing to contribute financially, emphasizing the importance of addressing current stewarding practices that have remained for too long without reform.
In a related development, the FIA recently removed former F1 driver Johnny Herbert from its stewarding roster due to concerns about potential conflicts arising from his media activities associated with betting companies. Herbert had previously made comments regarding race decisions, particularly those involving Max Verstappen, during a period when he served as a steward. This situation has further amplified the discourse surrounding the conduct and selections of stewards within the sport.
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www.motorsport.com