The Formula 1 world is on the eve of a special development for the Netherlands, with the appointment of Natalie Corsmit as the new FIA steward, who will make her debut at the Canadian Grand Prix on June 8, 2025. This appointment marks a milestone, not only for Corsmit herself, but also for Dutch motorsport, which will thus take on a more prominent role in the premier class. For Max Verstappen, who is currently under pressure due to his penalty points, the presence of a compatriot in the steward team may provide subtle support, although Corsmit emphasizes that objectivity is her priority.

Natalie Corsmit, granddaughter of former Formula 1 race director John Corsmit, is no stranger to motorsport. She has been an official for more than two decades, with an impressive track record. Since 2021, she has served as a steward in Formula 2 and Formula 3, the entry-level series to Formula 1, where she has built up experience in assessing incidents and enforcing regulations. Her participation in the FIA ​​High Performance Programme, an initiative to develop talented officials, paved the way for her promotion to Formula 1. “I have worked hard to make this step,” Corsmit told Motorsport.com. “Ever since I was allowed to go to Formula 1 with my grandfather as a child, this has been my dream.”

Corsmit’s debut in Canada is just the beginning. Later this year, she will also act as steward at the Singapore and Mexican Grands Prix, and at the Dutch Grand Prix in Zandvoort she will represent the KNAF as national steward. Her appointment is a recognition of her dedication and expertise, but also a step forward for gender diversity in Formula 1. Corsmit is only the third female steward in the history of the sport, after Silvia Bellot and Tanja Geilhausen. “The FIA ​​is keen to see more women in this role,” she explained, referring to the deliberate selection of female candidates for the High Performance Programme.

For Max Verstappen, Corsmit’s appointment comes at a crucial time. The Red Bull driver has 11 penalty points on his superlicence, just one point shy of an automatic one-race ban. Recent controversies, such as his collision with George Russell at the Spanish Grand Prix, have heightened tensions with the FIA. Some media have speculated that a Dutch steward could ease the relationship between Verstappen and race management, but Corsmit is clear about her role: “I want to judge strictly according to the rules.” Her preparation has been thorough, with a focus on studying the regulations, previous race incidents and video footage to ensure objective decisions.

Corsmit’s path to Formula 1 has been not only a professional success, but also a personal triumph. As an education manager at MBO Amersfoort and a mother of four, she combines her passion for motorsport with a busy family life. “My husband and children are super proud,” she said. “They gave me the space to do this, and without their support it wouldn’t have been possible.” Her grandfather’s legacy, combined with her own determination, makes her appointment extra special. Forty years after John Corsmit’s role as steward at the 1985 Dutch Grand Prix, his granddaughter is carrying on the family tradition.

The Dutch motorsport community is celebrating Corsmit’s achievement as a sign of her growing influence. With Verstappen as a four-time world champion and Zandvoort a permanent stop on the F1 calendar, the Netherlands is cementing its position in the sport. Corsmit’s presence on the stewards’ team symbolises not only national pride, but also the evolution of Formula 1 into a more inclusive and professional organisation. As the Canadian Grand Prix approaches, fans are eagerly awaiting how Corsmit will fulfil her role in a race that could prove crucial to Verstappen’s season. Her appointment promises to usher in a new chapter for both Dutch motorsport and Formula 1 itself.