Formula 1 to Introduce Four-Steward Panels at Six High-Workload Races in 2025
In an exciting development for Formula 1 fans, the stewards’ panels are set to undergo a significant expansion, increasing from three to four officials at select races during the 2025 season. This change, as outlined in Article 15.1 of F1’s 2025 sporting rules, aims to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of race adjudication, particularly at events with high workloads identified by the FIA.
Traditionally, F1 stewarding panels have consisted of three officials, with one member typically being a former racer to provide valuable insights from a driver’s perspective. Additionally, each panel includes a steward appointed by the national sporting authority overseeing the race. However, the revised Article 15.1 now stipulates that a minimum of three and a maximum of four stewards, with one designated as chairperson, will be appointed for each race from individuals holding an FIA Super Licence.
While this expansion will only be implemented at six races in 2025, namely those in Australia, China, Canada, Singapore, Mexico, and Brazil, the rationale behind this decision is to bolster stewarding capacity and resources at events where a higher workload is anticipated based on past races at those circuits. The additional member of the stewards’ panel will focus on conducting initial reviews and compiling evidence for post-incident deliberations, without possessing greater decision-making authority than the rest of the panel.
Despite these changes, the ultimate responsibility for making decisions will remain with the full panel, with a chairperson continuing to be appointed at each race. The introduction of four-steward panels represents a proactive approach by the FIA to streamline race adjudication processes and ensure thorough evaluations of on-track incidents.
As the 2025 season approaches, discussions surrounding F1 stewarding have intensified, particularly regarding the use of unpaid volunteers as stewards. These individuals, who receive only travel expenses for their services, play a crucial role in upholding FIA compliance codes by adjudicating racing incidents and enforcing regulations.
FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has expressed openness to the idea of permanent stewards but has raised concerns about the financial implications, questioning who should bear the costs. Notably, McLaren boss Zak Brown has voiced support for racing teams contributing to the funding of permanent stewards, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the current stewarding framework in the sport.
In a recent development, the FIA removed former F1 driver Johnny Herbert from its stewarding pool due to conflicting media engagements related to betting companies. Herbert’s commentary on decisions involving Max Verstappen during his tenure as a driver steward at the 2024 Mexican Grand Prix drew criticism from the reigning world champion’s team, underscoring the scrutiny surrounding stewards’ activities in F1.
As the sport evolves and adapts to new challenges, the role of stewards in ensuring fair competition and upholding the integrity of Formula 1 remains paramount. The upcoming season promises to showcase these changes in action, highlighting the ongoing efforts to enhance race adjudication processes and maintain transparency in decision-making.
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