Johnny Herbert has softened the blow of being axed as a Formula 1 steward by landing a new job. For many years, the former F1 racer and Sky Sports pundit had also been part of the FIA's pool of rotating driver stewards. However, this week the governing body announced that he would no longer serve in that capacity due to a conflict of interest. Herbert works as a pundit for several online betting sites and his comments about some F1 incidents made in that capacity sparked questions over his impartiality. The FIA said it "regretted" that it had to act but had come to the conclusion that the 60-year-old's media work was "incompatible" with the steward role.

But Herbert has already found a new job to replace his stewarding work. He has been brought in by legendary brand Lola Cars which this year has returned to high-level motorsport by entering the Formula E championship. And the company does not plan to stop there. Lola has expressed a desire to "build on its entry into Formula E and expand its presence across top tier motorsport", and Herbert will assist that cause by playing "a key role in partnerships and business development".

The Brit said: "It's hugely exciting to be involved with an iconic and successful championship-winning marque like Lola. Lola has always been a big part of the motorsport world and, having grown up with Lolas around me in Formula Ford, sportscars and F1, joining the team for this next chapter feels like the perfect fit. "I look forward to working with Lola and its partners, opening doors for the brand and helping contribute not only to the renewed success of such a storied name, but to the sustainable future of top tier motorsport as well.".

Lola went out of business more than a decade ago but the brand was revived by new chairman Till Bechtolsheimer who bought it in 2022. The brand returns to motorsport this year in FE, working with the ABT team in a technical partnership with Japanese giants Yamaha. Bechtolsheimer said: "The addition of a driver like Johnny to the Lola team is a real landmark moment for me. Having witnessed numerous displays of his talent and sportsmanship throughout his career, I am thrilled to get the opportunity to work alongside him.

"He is not only an ideal ambassador for everything that Lola stands for, but his wealth of experience will be a priceless resource for our present and future drivers.". Catch all the action from Formula One on Sky Sports and get exclusive access to races, qualifying and much more for every Grand Prix. From Max Verstappen to Lewis Hamilton, you won't miss a lap on Sky Sports. Get email updates with the day's biggest stories.