Johnny Herbert, a current steward for Formula 1, recently shared insights on the varying perceptions of race incidents and their adjudication, emphasizing that financial factors play a significant role. Herbert noted that the stewarding panel rotates from race to race, with him participating in events like Australia and Baku but not in Austin.
He highlighted that the stewards’ low compensation—around $300 a day—makes it challenging to commit fully to the season, which involves 20 or more races. This financial aspect complicates the consistency and reliability of stewarding decisions.
The structure of the stewarding team has come under scrutiny, particularly following remarks from Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff, who suggested there were patterns in the decisions made by different stewards without naming specific individuals.
In response, Herbert defended the integrity of the stewarding process, stating that each steward operates with a similar mindset and a commitment to fairness. He emphasized that the diversity of the panel—comprising individuals from different countries—helps in bringing various perspectives to the decision-making process, enhancing overall consistency.
Herbert expressed confidence in the current state of stewarding in F1, asserting that the consistency of decisions is at its best compared to previous times. He explained that while each steward brings their unique experiences and approaches to situations, the collaborative nature of their discussions leads to a unified perspective on the incidents they review. This positive dynamic among the stewards fosters a calm environment that allows for effective decision-making.
However, Herbert acknowledged that drivers and teams often have differing opinions on stewarding decisions, which can lead to accusations of bias. He recalled a particular incident involving Fernando Alonso, where he faced criticism for a penalty given to the driver, with suggestions that personal feelings might have influenced the decision. Herbert clarified that while drivers and teams may come in with their own interpretations of events, stewards must navigate these perspectives to ensure fairness and consistency.
Ultimately, Herbert concluded that while every race presents unique challenges, the stewarding team has achieved a level of coherence in their judgments that contributes positively to the sport. He believes that maintaining open communication and a shared understanding among stewards is essential for handling the complexities of different racing incidents, which vary greatly from one weekend to another. Herbert’s insights reflect both the challenges and the collaborative efforts involved in stewarding within the high-pressure environment of Formula 1 racing.
