The appointment of Natalie Corsmit as the new FIA steward for the Canadian Grand Prix on June 8, 2025 marks a historic milestone for Dutch motorsport. Corsmit, a seasoned official and granddaughter of former Formula 1 race director John Corsmit, will join the Formula 1 stewards team in a role in which she says she wants to represent the interests of Max Verstappen. In an exclusive interview with Motorsport.com, she expressed her concerns about Verstappen’s treatment by the FIA, suggesting that the Dutch driver has been unfairly disadvantaged by race officials. Her debut is seen as an opportunity to strengthen the Netherlands’ position in Formula 1 and support Verstappen in his fight against what she calls “deliberate oppression” by the FIA.

Corsmit’s career in motorsport spans more than two decades. Since 2021, she has been active as a steward in Formula 2 and Formula 3, where she has learned to assess complex incidents and impose penalties. Her participation in the FIA ​​High Performance Programme, an initiative to develop talented officials, has given her the opportunity to progress to the premier class. “I have always dreamed of this role,” said Corsmit. “As a child, I went to Grands Prix with my grandfather, and now I can finally make my mark in Formula 1.” Her appointment is not only a personal triumph, but also a step forward for diversity in the sport. As the third female steward in Formula 1, after Silvia Bellot and Tanja Geilhausen, she emphasises the importance of inclusivity. “The FIA ​​wants to see more women in this role, but I am here because I have proven my worth,” she said.

For Max Verstappen, Corsmit’s entry comes at a crucial time. The four-time world champion is on the brink of a suspension with 11 penalty points on his superlicence. Recent controversies, such as his collision with George Russell at the Spanish Grand Prix, have led to heated discussions about the consistency of the FIA ​​stewards. Corsmit’s statement that Verstappen was “deliberately suppressed” by the race management has drawn attention. She pointed to incidents in which she believes Verstappen was judged more harshly than his rivals, such as the 10-second penalty in Spain. “Max has had to endure an incredible amount,” she said. “As a Dutchman, I understand his frustrations, and I want to make sure the rules are applied fairly.” While she stressed that objectivity remains her priority, her words suggest an intention to protect Verstappen’s interests.

Corsmit’s stewardship role will not be limited to Canada. She has also been appointed for the Singapore and Mexican Grands Prix, and at the Dutch Grand Prix in Zandvoort she will act as national steward on behalf of the KNAF. Her preparation is meticulous, studying regulations, analysing footage from previous races and reviewing incidents to ensure consistent and fair decisions. “I want drivers to have confidence in our judgements,” she explained. Her experience in lower classes and her background as an education manager at MBO Amersfoort have taught her to remain calm under pressure, a quality that is essential in the fast-paced world of Formula 1.

The Dutch motorsport community has welcomed Corsmit’s appointment with enthusiasm. With Verstappen as a dominant force and Zandvoort as a regular Grand Prix venue, the Netherlands’ influence in the sport is growing. Corsmit’s presence on the stewards’ team is seen as an opportunity to represent the interests of Dutch drivers, especially at a time when Verstappen is under scrutiny. Her family has played a big part in her success. “My husband and four children have always supported me,” she said. “Without them, I wouldn’t have been able to take this step.”

As the Canadian Grand Prix approaches, fans and analysts alike are eagerly awaiting Corsmit’s debut. Her comments on Verstappen’s treatment have raised expectations that she can make a difference in race management. Whether she can truly influence the dynamic between Verstappen and the FIA ​​remains uncertain, but her determination to bring fairness and transparency promises a new era for Dutch motorsport. Corsmit’s entrance symbolizes not only national pride, but also an opportunity to make Formula 1 fairer for all drivers.