File Photo: Former Formula One driver Derek Warwick. Photo courtesy of F1i.com website.
The FIA announced the decision to dump the Briton and draft in Brazilian former driver Enrique Bernoldi overnight, ahead of Saturday's third practice and qualifying sessions, claiming he had been suspended "following recent unauthorised media comments".
Warwick acknowledged that his comments in interviews ahead of the Canadian event were ill-advised, given his role as a steward, and he apologised, but the paddock's reaction suggested most felt he had been treated severely and clumsily.
His suspension comes 24 hours after the FIA approved controversial changes to its statutes that critics claim reduces the transparency and accountability of the organisation.
The changes include advancing the deadlines for the declaration of candidates to stand against Ben Sulayem in an election later this year.
There are no confirmed rivals yet declared to run against the 63-year-old Emirati.
Warwick, meanwhile, is set to return as a steward at the Austrian Grand Prix.
Bernoldi, according to a statement from the International Motoring Federation (FIA), will officiate "from the remote operations centre in Geneva for the remainder of the event".
Warwick is a former winner of the Le Mans 24 Hours race, a former president of the British Racing Drivers club and one of the most respected senior figures in the sport.
He had been quoted by a gambling website as supporting a penalty that was given to four-time world champion Max Verstappen at the Spanish Grand Prix.
He is the second British ex-driver to be dropped from his role as a steward this year.
Johnny Herbert was dismissed in January because, said the FIA, his duties were incompatible with his work as a media pundit.
Many paddock observers were shocked by Warwick's suspension with his former rival and friend, television pundit Martin Brundle, reacting immediately.
He wrote on social media that "Derek Warwick is one of the most genuine and passionate people and racers I have ever known. He is a salt of the earth genuine guy.
"He's done so much for young racers and motorsport in general. Not least as an FIA Steward. He has my absolute support and friendship until my last breath."
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