At the end of last season, F1 drivers called on the FIA to try to ensure there was greater consistency in stewarding decisions and the awarding of penalties, with Mercedes driver George Russell being particularly vocal on the need for permanent stewards instead of the existing rotating, volunteer system.

Johnny Herbert has been dropped as a Formula One steward for the upcoming 2025 season after it was “mutually agreed” that his work as a media pundit was “incompatible” with his work for the FIA.

Johnny Herbert, now a former FIA race steward, issued his final warning to Max Verstappen just days before his removal as he told the F1 World Champion that rivals would “rebel” and “push back” against his antics.