George Russell Proposes Radical Change in Response to Max Verstappen Penalty Controversy

Mercedes driver George Russell has urged Formula 1 management to hire full-time race stewards to improve consistency in officiating, amid ongoing controversies over penalties in the sport. Ahead of the Brazil Grand Prix, the discussion has centered on recent penalties imposed on Max Verstappen at the Mexico Grand Prix, which sparked debate over inconsistent interpretations of racing incidents across different events.

Verstappen received two time penalties after officials ruled he forced Lando Norris off the track at Turn 4 and gained an advantage after going off at Turn 7. The penalties have intensified scrutiny on the decision-making process in F1. Russell, who also serves as Director of the Grand Prix Drivers Association, expressed his concerns over the current stewarding approach. “I do think we’re at a point now in this sport where we need a full-time professional steward,” he said, explaining that salaried, dedicated stewards could provide greater consistency and accountability.

Russell emphasized that his comments were not aimed at the current stewards but rather at the existing structure. “It’s not saying anything bad about the current stewards; it’s just saying I feel we should have systemized stewarding week in, week out,” he explained.

While not calling for a complete overhaul of F1 regulations, Russell advocated for adjustments to give drivers clearer expectations. “The guidelines need to be in place, but it also needs to be remembered they are guidelines,” he noted. “When things come down to interpretation… you can argue if you were to have the same stewards week in, week out, the consistency will be better. They’re interpreting things in the same manner, and the drivers understand exactly what to expect in a given circumstance.”