Ben Sulayem: Herbert was very good but there was a conflict of interest

Speaking at the Summit of Sporting Stewards at the Jarama circuit on Friday, Ben Sulayem made it clear that media involvement was incompatible with a regulatory role in F1 officiating. Hence Herbert parting ways ahead of this season, where the Briton was expected to officiate at the season opener in Australia.

Head of Formula 1's governing body, Ben Sulayem told reporters in Spain: "Johnny was a very good commissioner, but then there was a conflict of interest, and he knows it. You can't be a journalist in a big company and express your point of view, and then act as a commissioner, which is a referee. You say, you know: my best scenario is that so-and-so wins."

The FIA President emphasised that such a situation raises questions over decision-making in races: "And what happens if that driver you prefer has another driver in first or second place? How do you make your judgement? Well, I mean, the exit was... he understood it and thanked the FIA (for the opportunity), and we thanked him for what he did."

Herbert meanwhile has been hired as Lola's ambassador in Formula E. Before quitting his role as F1 Steward he wrote: “I’m very grateful for the opportunity of being an FIA Driver Steward, and I have thoroughly enjoyed the role I have been involved in over the years. It is a difficult job and there are tough decisions that have to be made.

“As Stewards, we have and will continue to treat both drivers and team personnel with the utmost respect and remain impartial at all times during all Grand Prix weekends. Finally, I’m very grateful to the President and everyone at the FIA for the opportunities that I have been given.”