Last Updated on January 30 2025, 11:35 am
Johnny Herbert lands new role after FIA sacking – Former Formula One driver Johnny Herbert has moved swiftly to secure a new role following his recent sacking as FIA steward. The British racing veteran, widely recognised for his insightful F1 analysis and commentary, has been appointed global brand ambassador for Lola, a storied name in motorsport that is making a much-anticipated comeback in 2024.
Herbert’s move into this new role comes just days after the FIA decided to part ways with him due to conflicts of interest. His return to the forefront of motorsport with Lola marks an exciting chapter in both his career and the revival of one of the industry’s most iconic racing brands.
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FIA departure: A controversial decision
Herbert, a three-time Grand Prix winner and a familiar face in F1 broadcasting, had taken on the role of Drivers’ Steward for a number of F1 races last season. In this role, he made crucial in-race decisions on driver penalties and incidents.
However, his affiliation with betting platforms, where he provided analysis and opinions on races – including those in which he had officiated – raised concerns within the FIA.
While it is common for former drivers to move into media roles, Herbert’s dual position as a steward and analyst for betting companies was seen as a potential conflict of interest. His discussions of stewarding decisions on these platforms reportedly did not sit well with the governing body. As a result, the FIA decided that these roles were incompatible and decided to terminate his stewarding role earlier this week.
Despite the unexpected setback, Herbert has quickly bounced back to take up a prestigious new position that will see him play a key role in Lola’s resurgence on the global motorsport stage.
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Lola’s Return: A major name rejoins the motorsport scene
Lola, once a dominant force in various racing disciplines, is making a significant return to top-level motorsport in 2024. The legendary British manufacturer, known for its involvement in Formula 1, IndyCar and endurance racing, had faded from the scene in the early 2000s.
However, a recent resurgence has seen Lola re-emerge with ambitious new projects, including an entry into Formula E in partnership with Yamaha.
Herbert’s appointment as global brand ambassador signals the company’s intention to combine its rich racing heritage with the future of motorsport. His role will be to promote Lola’s return, engage with fans and stakeholders and help shape the brand’s presence in its future racing endeavours.
Lola’s Formula E team will include experienced driver Lucas di Grassi and rising star Zane Maloney, marking the start of an exciting new chapter for the team.
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A new challenge for Herbert
As Lola’s ambassador, Herbert will be actively involved in a number of initiatives beyond Formula E. His expertise and deep-rooted connections in motorsport will be invaluable as the brand explores additional opportunities, including a potential return to endurance racing and the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Speaking to The Race about his new role, Herbert expressed his enthusiasm for Lola’s revival and the opportunity to be part of its journey: “The great thing for me is that Lola’s return is not only great news for the motorsport industry, but it also brings together different eras of racing.
“Lola has an incredible heritage and in the past it was almost like a university for engineers. Many of the sport’s greatest minds have passed through Lola, March, Reynard – you name it. The heritage of this brand is something really special and I’m delighted to be part of its comeback.”
His involvement is expected to be both promotional and advisory, ensuring that Lola’s re-emergence is met with enthusiasm by fans and industry professionals alike.
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A Legacy Continues: Lola’s motorsport ambitions
Lola’s storied history dates back to the early 1960s when it became a powerhouse in single-seater and endurance racing. Over the decades, the brand produced cars for Formula 1, Formula 5000, Champ Car and Le Mans, with many of its machines driven by legendary names in the sport.
Despite the financial struggles that led to its demise, Lola’s engineering legacy remains respected in the world of motorsport. The company’s revival is expected to build on this reputation, combining cutting-edge technology with the same racing spirit that defined its early success.
Lola’s Formula E entry is just the beginning, with a rumoured push into endurance racing and a possible future collaboration in hydrogen-powered motorsport. As sustainability becomes a central theme in modern racing, Lola’s return is in line with the industry’s shift towards cleaner and more efficient racing technologies.
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Herbert’s new chapter in motorsport
For Herbert, this new position is more than just a job – it is a return to the roots of motorsport and an opportunity to contribute to the next phase of racing innovation. With a career spanning Formula 1, endurance racing and broadcasting, he is a fitting ambassador for a brand that is looking to combine past success with future ambitions.
His recent departure from the FIA, while controversial, appears to have paved the way for a more exciting and influential role in the sport. With Herbert on board, Lola’s resurgence gains a familiar and trusted voice to represent its values and ambitions.
As 2024 unfolds, all eyes will be on Lola’s progress in Formula E and beyond, and with Herbert playing a key role, the brand’s return to prominence could be just around the corner.
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