The tension between Johnny Herbert and Jos Verstappen has raised a heated debate about the impartiality of the FIA stewards. It all started in Mexico, where Max Verstappen was penalized for his maneuvers on Lando Norris. Among the stewards who decided the penalty was Herbert, who then ended up in the crosshairs of Jos Verstappen. Max's father accused Herbert of being biased, arguing that an FIA steward should avoid expressing public opinions.
Verstappen – Herbert Conflict flares up again in Brazil
But the story didn't end there. The following weekend, in Brazil, Verstappen put in an extraordinary race, starting from 17th position and getting closer and closer to the fourth world title. While Max dominated on the track, Jos Verstappen reignited the controversy, accusing Herbert of not being impartial and insinuating that some stewards, especially former drivers, may have sympathies that influence their judgment.
Herbert replies: “No prejudice, just experience and integrity”
Johnny Herbert did not remain silent in the face of the accusations. In an interview with SafestBettingSites.co.uk, clarified his position and defended his professional integrity. “I am Johnny Herbert the steward and the professional during the race weekend, and Johnny Herbert the commentator in due course,” he explained. Herbert stressed that when he works as a steward, he does not express personal opinions and that his role as a commentator has never influenced his judgment on the track.
“Martin Brundle has an opinion too. Why shouldn’t I have one when I’m not at the circuit?” he added, claiming the right to express his views when he is not under FIA mandate. Herbert clarified that, with almost 50 years of experience in motorsport, he has every right to share his point of view, especially when he believes there are episodes worthy of criticism, and he stressed that his position is impartial: “It’s not just Max. I criticize anyone if I think it’s right to do so.”
Jos's criticisms and the issue of impartiality in FIA
Jos Verstappen, who has often been outspoken about Max’s treatment on the track, says the presence of former drivers like Herbert among the stewards risks creating an image of bias. “The FIA should be more careful about who they appoint as stewards to avoid the appearance of a conflict of interest,” he said, adding that a steward should not speak to the press or express personal opinions, especially when involved in sensitive decisions.
Herbert responded to this point too, noting that Jos has never been shy about expressing public criticism, even towards the Red Bull team. “Jos is also very vocal about what happens at Red Bull. He has the right to express an opinion,” Herbert commented, defending his freedom of speech with the same principle that Jos claims for himself.
Source statements: Motorsport
