F1 | FIA removes Derek Warwick in Canada after unauthorised comments. The FIA suspended steward Derek Warwick in Canada over unauthorised media comments.

During the Canadian weekend, a surprising announcement was made: the FIA decided to replace one of the event’s stewards.

A new face is preparing to evaluate the weekend’s incidents. This is because, during the Italian night between Friday and Saturday, the FIA announced the suspension of race steward Derek Warwick in Canada. Warwick is a former F1 driver who will resume his stewarding duties in Austria at the end of June. Meanwhile, through an official statement, the Federation disclosed the name of the British steward’s replacement and the reason for the suspension.

FIA takes a hard line in Canada
In the FIA’s statement, we read: “Following recent unauthorised statements to the media, the FIA has decided to suspend Derek Warwick from his role as race steward for this weekend’s Canadian Grand Prix.” Referring to inappropriate remarks, the Federation was alluding to the former driver’s comments on the Russell–Verstappen incident that took place in Spain.

The statement continues by explaining who will take Warwick’s place: “He will be replaced by Enrique Bernoldi,” a former Brazilian driver who, however, is not present in Montreal. Therefore, Bernoldi “will officiate the race from the Remote Operations Centre in Geneva for the remainder of the event.”

“After discussion, Derek acknowledged that his comments were inappropriate given his role as an FIA steward and has apologised.” A similar issue occurred a few months ago with Johnny Herbert, whose role as a commentator conflicted with that of FIA steward, forcing him to step down from the latter. Warwick’s case, however, is only a temporary suspension: the FIA concluded the statement by confirming he will return for the next race weekend.