George Russell and Nico Rosberg defended Derek Warwick after the FIA temporarily suspended him for comments made about driver penalties.
George Russell was asked to comment, in his capacity as director of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association (GPDA), on the temporary suspension of former F1 driver and steward Derek Warwick.
Warwick was removed from his duties for the weekend following remarks he made in the media.
He had notably commented on the penalty handed to Max Verstappen in Spain.
So, according to Russell, should stewards be allowed to speak to the media, or does that present a conflict of interest?
“You know, we’re obviously all open with our opinions. I think what Derek said didn’t offend anyone. That’s why we’re going to see him again.”
“Above all, I think nowadays every word you say is scrutinized, and that’s the nature of the sport we’re in. It’s important to remember that the stewards are volunteers. They don’t earn any income from their stewarding activity.”
“They also have a life outside Formula 1. We all speak to the media in the paddock. So yes, if it had been more than a temporary exclusion — not a ban — but his temporary removal from stewarding duties this weekend, I think anything beyond that would have been a bit excessive.”
Nico Rosberg, 2016 Formula 1 World Champion, supported the FIA’s decision, even if it seemed strict.
“It’s understandable, because when Derek becomes a steward, he signs a document stating that he’s not allowed to comment on drivers, teams, etc., during the weekend.”
“One can explain the processes, the procedures the stewards follow in making certain decisions. That’s the only thing a steward is allowed to publicly explain. He went beyond that.”
“So it’s natural that you’d be asked to step down from your role as a steward; however, he apologized, which is good. He’ll probably be back in Austria, which is also perfectly acceptable.”
