The FIA has suspended F1 steward Derek Warwick for unauthorised comments made during a recent interview with a gambling website ahead of the 2025 Canadian GP. During the interview, Warwick discussed the late-race incident involving Max Verstappen and George Russell at the Spanish GP. Verstappen received a 10-second time penalty for the collision, which, in turn, added to his existing penalty points and brought him closer to a potential race ban.
Warwick’s comments a violation of impartiality
Originally, Warwick had been appointed as the driver steward for this weekend’s race in Montreal. However, following the publication of his remarks, the FIA decided to remove him from the role. According to the governing body, the comments violated its communication protocols. Officials must maintain confidentiality and impartiality, particularly when addressing unresolved or recent race incidents.
As a result, the FIA named Enrique Bernoldi as Warwick’s replacement. Notably, Bernoldi will officiate remotely from the FIA’s Remote Operations Centre in Geneva. This arrangement, while not uncommon, allows stewards to perform their duties without attending the event in person.
In their official statement, the FIA explained their decision:
“Following recent unauthorised 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. 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 apologised. Derek will resume his duties as a steward in the forthcoming Austrian Grand Prix.”
Warwick to return in Austria
Following the suspension, Warwick accepted responsibility and issued an apology. Consequently, he will return to his stewarding duties at the Austrian GP. Meanwhile, Bernoldi, who has served in multiple FIA roles, will oversee race operations for the remainder of the Canadian round.
