Horner on Herbert’s FIA exit: “It’s the right decision”

Regarding the topic of race stewards, Red Bull team principal Christian Horner responded to Zak Brown, defending both Verstappen and the team. Here’s what Horner had to say about Herbert

The role of stewards in F1 has sparked considerable controversy within the paddock. After Zak Brown’s strong criticism of the FIA last week, a response came from none other than his (sporting) rival, Christian Horner. The Red Bull team principal addressed his fellow Brit from Woking, though not entirely in direct response to Brown’s critique. Instead, he focused on the decision made by FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem to remove Johnny Herbert from his role as race steward.

Johnny Herbert, a former F1 driver and one of the few consistent stewards in recent years, left his FIA position a few days ago. His exit is believed to be linked to a deteriorated relationship with Ben Sulayem (or another unnamed figure). The exact reasons were never officially disclosed, similar to the abrupt departure of legendary race director Niels Wittich earlier in the season, just before the Las Vegas Grand Prix. Wittich was replaced by the completely different race steward Rui Marques.

Red Bull pushed for Herbert’s exit? Horner clarifies it all

However, Herbert wasn’t just involved in race control—he was also a media pundit for F1’s official broadcaster. According to Dutch outlet GPblog.com, Red Bull was one of the teams that called for Herbert’s resignation, possibly due to controversial statements or incorrect decisions as a steward. The report states:
“Herbert’s dual role created discontent among various F1 teams, with at least two teams filing an official protest with the FIA, including Red Bull.”

Dutch media have frequently highlighted tensions between Max Verstappen and Herbert in late 2024, with the former driver-turned-pundit often criticizing the Red Bull champion. Notably, Herbert was one of the stewards at the Mexican Grand Prix, where Verstappen received an unprecedented 20 seconds in penalties—the harshest of his F1 career.

Christian Horner has also commented: “Johnny is highly respected and has brought invaluable experience and expertise to his role. However, after discussions, it was mutually agreed that his dual roles as an FIA steward and a media pundit were incompatible”.

Then the Red Bull’s team principal concluded: “First and foremost, this has nothing to do with Max, but it’s the right decision. Moreover, stewards should not be involved with the media—it doesn’t happen in any other professional sport. It is completely inappropriate“. These strong words will likely fuel further debate and add to the ongoing tensions within the F1 paddock.

Photo: FIA.com, Oracle Red Bull Racing