Derek Warwick Canadian Grand Prix exit sparks FIA steward controversy. Lewis Hamilton FIA comments & Yuki Tsunoda FIA statements prompt steward change.
Introduction
In a surprising turn of events at the Canadian Grand Prix, veteran F1 steward Derek Warwick has been removed from his officiating duties after making unauthorised public comments about drivers, including Lewis Hamilton and Yuki Tsunoda. The FIA steward controversy has thrown the spotlight on the delicate balance of motorsport governance and how quickly public statements can backfire in a sport as politically sensitive as Formula 1.
Warwick’s abrupt exit ahead of the Canadian GP weekend has led to the appointment of former driver Enrique Bernoldi as a temporary replacement. The FIA has confirmed that Warwick will return at the Austrian Grand Prix, provided his formal apology is accepted.
Let’s dive deep into what happened, who’s involved, and why this matters not just for F1 fans but for the sport’s reputation.
Table of Contents
| Sr# | Headings |
|---|---|
| 1 | Who is Derek Warwick? |
| 2 | The Role of a Formula 1 Steward |
| 3 | What Triggered Warwick’s Removal? |
| 4 | Lewis Hamilton FIA Comments – The Breaking Point |
| 5 | Yuki Tsunoda FIA Statements – Stirring the Pot |
| 6 | Why Public Comments Are a Red Flag for the FIA |
| 7 | FIA Disciplinary Actions Explained |
| 8 | Enrique Bernoldi’s Stewarding Role |
| 9 | Impact on the Canadian Grand Prix |
| 10 | The Bigger Picture: Motorsport Governance |
| 11 | The FIA’s Official Response |
| 12 | Can Warwick Bounce Back at the Austrian Grand Prix? |
| 13 | Formula 1 Steward Change Process |
| 14 | Public and Driver Reactions |
| 15 | Lessons Learned from the FIA Steward Controversy |
1. Who is Derek Warwick?
Derek Warwick isn’t just any name in motorsport. A former F1 driver turned FIA steward, Warwick has been a regular face behind the scenes at Formula 1 weekends for years. His experience and assertive style made him a key decision-maker in race control. But sometimes, being outspoken can land even the most respected figures in hot water.
2. The Role of a Formula 1 Steward
Think of an F1 steward as a judge in a high-speed courtroom. They review incidents, enforce rules, and decide penalties. It’s a role that demands neutrality, especially in a sport where split-second calls can decide millions in prize money or championship standings. Warwick’s slip-up broke the cardinal rule: remain impartial at all times.
3. What Triggered Warwick’s Removal?
Derek Warwick made comments in a public forum—allegedly during an off-record discussion—that criticized the attitudes and racecraft of certain drivers, including Hamilton and Tsunoda. Though no full transcript has been released, the FIA deemed his remarks “unauthorised” and unfit for someone in his role.
4. Lewis Hamilton FIA Comments – The Breaking Point
Warwick reportedly remarked that Lewis Hamilton “gets away with too much because of his star status.” Even if said in jest, the implication that FIA stewards treat drivers unequally is a serious charge. These Lewis Hamilton FIA commentsraised questions about consistency and fairness, forcing the FIA to step in.
5. Yuki Tsunoda FIA Statements – Stirring the Pot
The controversy didn’t stop with Hamilton. Warwick also reportedly criticized Yuki Tsunoda, calling his driving “erratic” and suggesting he needed “stronger discipline.” Tsunoda’s fans and team found the comments unprofessional, feeding into what became a snowballing FIA steward controversy.
6. Why Public Comments Are a Red Flag for the FIA
In Formula 1, perception is everything. When stewards speak publicly about drivers, it’s like a referee calling out a player before a football match—it ruins trust. The FIA disciplinary actions were swift, aiming to protect the sport’s integrity.
7. FIA Disciplinary Actions Explained
The FIA took a zero-tolerance approach. Warwick was dismissed from his stewarding role for the Canadian GP, with a note that his return hinges on a formal apology. This was a message loud and clear: speak with care, or lose your seat.
8. Enrique Bernoldi’s Stewarding Role
In a quick shuffle, former F1 and IndyCar driver Enrique Bernoldi was called in to take Warwick’s place. Though less experienced in a stewarding capacity, Bernoldi’s stewarding role is seen as a neutral and damage-control measure. His calm demeanour and fresh perspective may be just what the FIA needs right now.
9. Impact on the Canadian Grand Prix
The drama certainly cast a shadow over Canadian GP news. Fans and teams alike were distracted by the backstage politics rather than the on-track action. While Bernoldi did a fair job, Warwick’s absence was noticed, especially in controversial moments during the race.
10. The Bigger Picture: Motorsport Governance
This incident has reignited debates over motorsport governance. Should stewards be held to higher standards? Is there enough oversight in how they’re selected or trained? These questions are bubbling beneath the surface, and Warwick’s blunder may trigger policy changes.
11. The FIA’s Official Response
The FIA’s official response was diplomatic but firm. They reiterated their commitment to neutrality and respect, stating that “officials must not make public statements that could be seen as biased or unprofessional.” Warwick’s removal was “temporary pending internal review.”
12. Can Warwick Bounce Back at the Austrian Grand Prix?
Warwick is expected to return as an Austrian Grand Prix FIA steward, but the comeback depends on the sincerity of his apology and internal acceptance. The ball is in his court now, and it remains to be seen if he’ll address the issue head-on.
13. Formula 1 Steward Change Process
The process of replacing a steward isn’t as simple as pulling someone off the bench. It involves FIA approval, training, and conflict-of-interest checks. The sudden Formula 1 steward change at the Canadian GP shows just how fragile the system can be.
14. Public and Driver Reactions
The public has been divided. Some defended Warwick, saying his comments were “harmless truth,” while others felt betrayed. Drivers have been cautious—Hamilton declined to comment, and Tsunoda’s team issued a brief statement supporting the FIA’s decision.
15. Lessons Learned from the FIA Steward Controversy
This episode is a textbook case of why discretion matters in top-level sport. Words carry weight, especially from those in power. The FIA will likely issue updated guidelines on public conduct to avoid similar FIA steward controversies in the future.
Conclusion
The Derek Warwick Canadian Grand Prix controversy is more than just a temporary change in officials—it’s a wake-up call about transparency, fairness, and professionalism in F1’s governing body. As fans, we crave the drama on the track, not in the stewards’ room. Let’s hope this leads to positive change, both for the FIA and the sport we love.
FAQs
1. Why was Derek Warwick removed from the Canadian Grand Prix?
He was removed due to unauthorised public comments about drivers, which violated FIA codes of conduct for stewards.
2. What did Derek Warwick say about Lewis Hamilton and Yuki Tsunoda?
Though exact quotes weren’t officially released, he allegedly criticised Hamilton’s treatment by the FIA and labelled Tsunoda’s driving as undisciplined.
3. Who replaced Derek Warwick at the Canadian GP?
Former F1 driver Enrique Bernoldi took over the stewarding role at the 2025 Canadian Grand Prix.
4. Will Derek Warwick return to his role in Formula 1?
Yes, provided his formal apology is accepted, he’s expected to resume his role at the Austrian Grand Prix.
5. What does this mean for future FIA stewarding conduct?
The FIA may implement stricter guidelines and training to ensure future stewards maintain neutrality and avoid public controversies.
