"Unyielding Response: F1 Legend Fights Back After Suspension Over Unapproved Remarks in Canadian Grand Prix"
Revamped Discourse on Warwick's Suspension
Hear it loud and clear, ex-F1 driver Derek Warwick finds himself in hot water over some remarks he dropped in an interview with a gambling site. The FIA has given him the boot for this weekend's Canadian Grand Prix, as confirmed by an official statement.
Warwick's comments, criticizing several current drivers — namely, Lando Norris, Lance Stroll, and Yuki Tsunoda — seemed to have crossed the line, leading to his suspension.
In place of Warwick, Enrique Bernoldi will step up and take the reins for Sunday's race before Warwick makes his return to the role at the Austrian Grand Prix in two weeks.
The FIA's statement went on to say, "Following these unscripted media comments, the FIA has decided to temporarily remove Derek Warwick from his role as driver steward for the Canadian Grand Prix. Enrique Bernoldi will fill in for the remainder of the event from the Remote Operations Centre in Geneva."
Warwick duly acknowledged the error in his words and tendered an apology, according to the statement. After some discussion, he realized his statements were inappropriate, given his role as an FIA steward.
Taking to social media, legendary F1 pundit Martin Brundle expressed his backing for his long-time associate. Brundle praised Warwick, labeling him one of the most genuine and passionate people he knows. He cheered Warwick's dedication to young racers and motorsport in general.
Warwick had earlier made his mark in F1 for a dozen years between 1981 and 1993, collecting four podium finishes across 147 starts. He added a stunning victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans to his resume in 1992, before jumping back into F1 the following year.
After hanging up his racing boots, Warwick joined the FIA as a steward, serving in the role starting with the 2010 F1 season. The steward's position is usually filled by former drivers to offer an expert's perspective to the panel.
This weekend's Canadian Grand Prix qualifying sessions are set to take place on Saturday night before Sunday's race at the Circuite Gilles Villeneuve.
Fascinating F1 Insights:
- Warwick has been a vocal supporter of Lewis Hamilton, expressing his belief that Hamilton deserves an eighth World Championship title[3][4].
- In the same interview, Warwick weighed in on the penalty given to Max Verstappen after his collision with George Russell at the Spanish Grand Prix – although he was not a part of the stewards' panel making the decision[4].
[1] Confirming the decision, an FIA statement read: "Following recent unauthorised media comments, the FIA has taken the decision to suspend Derek Warwick from his duties as driver steward for this weekend's Canadian Grand Prix.
[2] Warwick's suspension follows discussions about his comments. He has apologized for any inconvenience caused[2].
[3] Warwick also shared his thoughts about Hamilton's potential retirement and the driver's future in F1[3][4].
[4] Warwick's comments, made primarily during an interview with a gambling website, have been deemed ill-advised by the FIA[4][5].
[5] The FIA statement also revealed that Warwick will resume his duties as a steward at the Austrian Grand Prix[4].
Enrique Bernoldi will temporarily replace Derek Warwick as driver steward for Sunday's Canadian Grand Prix, indicating Warick's suspension due to his recent comments in a sports-related interview. Warwick's passion for F1 continues, as he has expressed his support for Lewis Hamilton and shared insights about the sport.
