Mansell considering stewards' panel role

Date published : 13 Mar 2010 - 13:53:00

Nigel Mansell has revealed that he could be the third former Formula 1 world champion to agree to assist the FIA-appointed stewards at grands prix during 2010.The 1992 title-winner told the BBC that he had been in talks with the governing body following a new innovation for this year to get retired F1 drivers to give an authoritative opinion on incidents and penalties.Mansell's former team-mate Damon Hill has already confirmed that he will assume the role at two races, while another of Mansell's stable-mates - Alain Prost is in the role for this weekend's Bahrain Grand Prix. "I can honestly say that we've had a phone call, we've had a chat with the FIA," he said. "I think it is a marvellous idea what they are doing because if they can get world champions as a fourth steward, if there is a coming together they can give their input."Obviously then the other stewards can interpret the rules and deem what the final penalty will be but I just think is very smart to give it more credibility."Past world champions are in a position to do that, and all credit to the FIA and everybody thinking about it."