Russell Stands Up for Suspended FIA Steward Warwick in Canada

"Principally, I think these days every word you say gets scrutinised, and that’s just the nature of the game we’re in. We also have to remember the stewards are volunteers," Russell said at the press conference after the Grand Prix qualifying on Saturday.

"They don’t make an income from stewarding. They have a life outside of Formula 1 as well. We all speak to media in the paddock. So, yeah, if it was anything more than his sort of temporary—not ban—but his temporary avoidance of stewarding this weekend, I think anything more than that would’ve been a bit OTT (over the top, ed.), the Mercedes driver who starts from pole position at the Canadian Grand Prix concluded.

Martin Brundle, a Sky Sports analyst, also defended Warwick immediately through social media. Brundle wrote the following on X: "Derek Warwick is one of the most genuine and passionate people and racers I have ever known. He is a salt of the earth genuine guy. He's done so much for young racers and motorsport in general. Not least as an FIA Steward. He has my absolute support and friendship until my last breath."

Earlier this year, Johnny Herbert was also relieved of his duty at the FIA, for giving out interviews to gambling sites. According to the guidelines, it's allowed as long as the interview doesn't touch on a decision made by the race direction.