Formula One's governing body was right to drop Johnny Herbert as a steward because of the former racer's media work, according to Red Bull boss Christian Horner who denied his team had influenced the decision.

Formula 1 season gets underway, one of their race stewards has been removed by the sport’s governing body. The FIA announced on Wednesday that Johnny Herbert, a former driver who notched three Grand Prix victories during his time on the grid,

The former F1 driver was in line to be a steward at the season-opening race in Australia but was criticised by Jos Verstappen last year for his dual role as steward and pundit

The three-time Grand Prix winner was called out by Jos Verstappen, who insisted that his media duties were not compatible with those of a steward. Herbert also angered the Red Bull camp with his comments about Verstappen Jnr’s swearing in Singapore, sparking a public row.