The seven-time world champion, who retired in October, headed the GPDA for 12 years and despite his antics on the track, was highly thought of when exercising his role.

"Drivers’ representatives should make the effort to come to meetings when invited," Mosley said in F1 Racing magazine.

"Although it’s hard and often tedious work, their input is useful in certain areas. That is where Michael Schumacher scored so heavily. He was rational, professional and available. It is not obvious who can replace him," he said.

Schumacher was among several members of the GPDA who voiced their concerns over circuit safety last season and clashed with the FIA over run-off areas at Monza ahead of the Italian Grand Prix last September.

Mosley, who said he respected the opinions of the drivers, insisted however, when it came to technical issues, the governing body were best suited to adjudicate.

“We will always listen to drivers, but the decisions must be ours,” he said. “And if we have to lose a race or two or a few licences to make the point, we will. It will be better for the sport in the long run.

'Of course, there are many areas where drivers’ opinions are helpful, indeed essential; for example, over flag and light signals, pit entry and exit layouts, driver-to-driver conduct and so on," he said.

"But highly technical matters to do with run-off-areas, crash barriers and car safety have moved beyond the drivers," he said.