Johnny Herbert is leaving the FIA and the role of race steward in F1, much to Red Bull’s delight. The Milton Keynes team, through the words of Christian Horner, does not hide its satisfaction following the decision of the International Federation. For some time now, Herbert has been at the center of strong criticism for his dual role as steward and television pundit.
Not only are there bad news from President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, at least for Red Bull. While on one hand the new crackdown on profanity appears to have annoyed Max Verstappen, on the other hand the removal of Johnny Herbert from his role as steward makes Milton Keynes happy. The team led by Christian Horner has long had a less than ideal relationship with the Briton.
“When I’m a steward, I don’t express any opinions,” Johnny Herbert defended himself. “Everyone has one, though; even Martin Brundle has an opinion. Why can’t I express mine when I’m not on the track? The track has been my world for 50 years. If I don’t agree with what I see on the track, I say so. It’s not just about Max. I will criticize anyone if I deem it justified.”
Christian Horner: “Either you are a steward or you are a pundit”
At the Autosport Awards, Christian Horner did not fail to comment on the FIA’s decision: “First of all, and this has nothing whatsoever to do with Max, [removing Johnny Herbert] is the right decision,” he explained to Sky Sports F1. “You can’t have stewards working in the media. It isn’t like that in the Premier League. It doesn’t exist in any other form of professional sport. It is completely inappropriate.” – the Red Bull team boss pointed out.
“Either you are on the side of the race stewards or you are on the side of the media. You can’t be in both camps.” – he concluded.
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