F1 governing body drops former racer Herbert as steward

Formula One's governing body dropped former racer Johnny Herbert as a grand prix steward on Wednesday, saying the Briton's work as a media pundit was incompatible with the role.

Herbert, a three-time winner who competed for an array of F1 teams in the 1980s and 1990s and started 160 races as well as winning the Le Mans 24 Hours, had been scheduled to officiate at the season-opening Australian Grand Prix on 16 March.

The 60-year-old former Sky Sports F1 pundit angered four-time world champion Max Verstappen and father Jos last season for media comments about the Red Bull driver's track behaviour.

He has continued to offer opinions for various websites since then.

"It is with regret that we announce today that Johnny Herbert will no longer fulfill the position of F1 driver steward for the FIA," the governing body said in a statement.

"Johnny is widely respected and brought invaluable experience and expertise to his role. However, after discussion, it was mutually agreed that his duties as an FIA steward and that of a media pundit were incompatible.

"We thank him for his service and wish him well in his future endeavours."

Stewards ensure the rules are applied consistently and fairly during race weekends, applying punishments if necessary. One of them is usually a former racer, ensuring the drivers' point of view is considered.

There was no immediate comment from Herbert.