The numerous disputes that emerged during the 2024 season between drivers and stewards have reignited the debate over whether permanent stewards should be introduced in Formula 1. The often inconsistent decisions taken by stewards at various Grands Prix, combined with differing interpretations of the rules, have caused growing discontent among drivers. George Russell, as a member of the GPDA, was one of the first to call for a rethink of the current system, which is based on voluntary and rotating stewards. However, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem was quick to make it clear that, while he supported the idea of greater professionalism, the problem with permanent stewards lies in the costs involved.
Ben Sulayem: “Stewards Don’t Grow on Trees”
Interviewed by Motorsport Ben Sulayem reiterated that training stewards is already a long and complex process: “I often say, stewards do not grow on trees. It takes time and resources to educate them and make them grow. I understand the idea of having professional stewards like in the Premier League, but we do not have the money to do it”.
The FIA president stressed that the issue of funding is the central issue: "When you talk about professionals, you also have to ask who will pay for it. Drivers earn over 100 million dollars; I don't ask how they spend their money, just as they shouldn't ask how we manage the FIA's funds."
Who should fund fixed stewards?
According to Ben Sulayem, the financial burden for any permanent stewards should fall on the FOM and the teams: “The FOM pays the FIA for part-time stewards. If they want something different, there will be a different price. And that means the teams should contribute.”
Despite the controversy, the FIA seems determined to maintain the current stewardship system, focusing on training and commitment of volunteers: "As long as they are fair, competent and well trained, the system will continue to work. Of course, there will be stewards who come and go, but that is part of our program."
