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.

Herbert has departed his role with the FIA after the governing body declared his work as a media pundit “incompatible” with that of a steward, with the former Formula 1 driver

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.