FIA to implement new stewarding system at Australian GP, expanding official count for better race decisions

Formula 1 is set to witness a major change in its stewarding system for the 2025 season, as the FIA has reportedly adjusted the number of stewards assigned to race weekends. According to Autosport, this revision will first be implemented at the season-opening Australian Grand Prix, which will feature an expanded panel under the new format.

Traditionally, F1 race weekends have been overseen by four stewards, including a former driver and a representative from the national sporting authority. However, the updated regulations for 2025 suggest a shift in this structure. Most grands prix will now see only three stewards officiating, while select high-intensity race weekends will retain four stewards to manage increased workloads. These six high-profile events include the Australian, Chinese, Canadian, Singapore, Mexican, and Brazilian Grands Prix.

The FIA Sporting Regulations have been updated accordingly, confirming that “a minimum of three and a maximum of four stewards, one of whom will be appointed chairman” will oversee each grand prix. This move is expected to streamline decision-making across race weekends while maintaining regulatory consistency.
The FIA’s approach to stewarding has been a subject of debate, particularly after the removal of Johnny Herbert from the panel. The three-time race winner was dismissed due to concerns over a conflict of interest with his F1 punditry role. Herbert’s outspoken analysis of drivers, especially Max Verstappen, sparked controversy, with both Verstappen and his father, Jos, reacting to his critiques during the 2024 season.
Similarly, 1996 World Champion Damon Hill faced backlash for his criticism of Verstappen, with comments that further fueled discussions around impartiality in F1 stewarding. As the 2025 season approaches, it remains to be seen how these changes will impact decision-making and whether they will help mitigate controversies surrounding stewarding decisions.
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With Melbourne set to be the first race under this revised stewarding structure, all eyes will be on how the system performs in practice and whether it delivers the efficiency and fairness the FIA aims to achieve.