Former Formula One world champion Sir Jackie Stewart is backing the British Grand Prix following a stinging attack by F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone.

Stewart does not think the race at Silverstone Prix is in doubt despite the decision of the man in charge of the race to resign.

As president of the British Racing Drivers' Club, Stewart has worked closely with Rob Bain, the chief executive of Silverstone leaseholders Octagon Motorsports.

Bain resigned on Monday following negative comments from Ecclestone about last weekend's event.

"We have made such big steps forward," said Stewart.

"The master plan for Silverstone to create a centre of excellence is on course," he told BBC Radio Five Live.

"Bernie Ecclestone himself has invested with the BRDC and Octagon to make this a centre of excellence in motorsports.

"It's important to keep the GP in Britain and Silverstone is its home."

But Ecclestone's criticism of the race - he claimed the GP resembled a "country fair" - was not behind Bain's decision to quit, according to Stewart.

"I don't think that's what tipped the balance. I think he basically made up his mind that this was something he had been in long enough.

"I understand it's a decision he has made and I wish him well but I thought it was a pretty good team we had."