Brown proposes F1 teams fund full-time stewards

McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown has advocated for the professionalization of Formula 1 stewarding, suggesting that teams could contribute financially to support full-time stewards. This proposal comes in response to the FIA's recognition of a shortage of trained officials and recent controversies over stewarding decisions, particularly highlighted by the dismissal of former steward Johnny Herbert. Brown emphasized the importance of having dedicated, paid officials in a sport where critical decisions can greatly impact outcomes. He acknowledged that relying solely on unpaid volunteers is inadequate for a multi-billion-dollar industry and expressed his willingness to share the financial burden among all teams. FIA President Mohamed Ben Sulayem and other officials have supported this shift towards a more structured and professional stewarding system. The need for reform reflects broader concerns about consistency and fairness in race officiating.