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 is experiencing a pivotal moment. The Red Bull driver has embarked on a superlicence with a superlicence and managed to secure automatic classification for one race. Recently, there has been controversy with George Russell at the Spanish Grand Prix, which the FIA confirmed. Some media outlets are speculating that a Dutch steward may be involved in Verstappen’s relationship and marriage, but Corsmit is dubious about his role: “I’m going to break the rules.” His preparation is rumbling, with close attention paid to the best regulatory studies, other racing incidents, and video clips aimed at ensuring he is safe.
Corsmit’s Formula 1 pad is not only a professional success, but also a personal triumph. The MBO Amersfoort director and several children combine their passion for motorsport with coaching work. “My husband and my children own my supertrots,” he says. “I have the room where I do this, and without him, it is impossible to do this.” The great father’s career, combined with his own extensive time, can have an extra-special analysis. This concerns John Corsmit’s former role as steward of the 1985 Dutch Grand Prix, which has become a small family affair.
The Dutch motorsport association Corsmit’s performance is a testament to its involvement. With Verstappen and his many racing clubs at Zandvoort as a major stop on the F1 calendar, the Netherlands has a significant position in the sport. Corsmit’s involvement in the stewards’ team symbolizes not only national racing, but also Formula 1’s evolution towards a more inclusive professional organization. After the Canadian Grand Prix, many fans met up with Corsmit to participate in a crucial race that led to Verstappen’s victory. We have a new shoe for Dutch motorsport, as Formula 1 itself.
