The FIA has suspended former Formula 1 driver Derek Warwick from his duties as a driver steward for the Canadian Grand Prix, which is currently underway. The decision comes after Warwick made unauthorized comments to the media regarding Max Verstappen's penalty at the Spanish Grand Prix. Warwick's remarks, made to a betting site, were deemed inappropriate by the FIA, leading to his suspension for this particular race.

Warwick, a seasoned veteran of 146 Grand Prix starts and a former Le Mans 24 Hours winner, offered his opinion on the controversial collision between Verstappen and George Russell during the Spanish Grand Prix. He stated that Verstappen's time penalty was justified, a viewpoint the FIA considered problematic given his role as a steward. According to Warwick, Verstappen was "absolutely wrong" in his maneuver at Turn Five with Russell, and the FIA was right to issue a penalty. He added that while some argued for a harsher penalty, like the one Sebastian Vettel received in Baku for deliberately driving into Lewis Hamilton, the FIA "got it about right" in Verstappen's case.

The FIA's decision to suspend Warwick underscores its commitment to impartiality and unbiased judgment within its officiating ranks. The governing body emphasized that Warwick's comments were "ill-advised" in his capacity as an FIA steward. Warwick has since acknowledged his misjudgment and issued an apology. He will be replaced by Enrique Bernoldi, who will serve as the driver steward from the Remote Operations Centre in Geneva for the remainder of the Canadian Grand Prix event. Warwick is expected to resume his duties as a steward at the upcoming Austrian Grand Prix.

This isn't the first instance of the FIA taking action against stewards for making public statements. Earlier this year, Johnny Herbert was removed from his position as an FIA steward due to his media punditry, which the FIA deemed incompatible with his role. These incidents highlight the FIA's strict policy against stewards publicly commenting on race-related incidents, particularly those involving penalties or controversies. The FIA likely hopes that this decisive action will quell any accusations of bias.

Martin Brundle, a Sky Sports F1 pundit, voiced his support for Warwick, calling him "one of the most genuine and passionate people and racers" he has ever known. Brundle also acknowledged Warwick's extensive contributions to young racers and motorsport in general, stating that he has his "absolute support and friendship until my last breath."

The FIA's suspension of Derek Warwick also comes amidst scrutiny over recent statute changes within the organization. Critics argue that these changes, enacted under president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, risk further eroding the FIA's reputation for competent and transparent governance. Allegations include the erosion of accountability, the introduction of measures that enhance the president's power, and reduced oversight.