Olympic swimmer Mack Horton faces court after running red light

Olympic gold medallist Mack Horton has appeared in a Melbourne court after running a red light last year.

The court heard Horton, 20, ran a red light in on Nicholson Street, Carlton, on the afternoon of June 11.

He pleaded guilty to the traffic infringement in the Melbourne Magistrates Court and was released without conviction on a six-month good behaviour bond.

He was also ordered to pay $150 to a charity.

The magistrate told Horton he needed to “learn patience behind the wheel”.

Horton, who won the 400m freestyle for Australia at the Rio Olympic Games last year, tweeted a message to “young Victorians” after leaving the courtroom, expressing “the importance of patience”.

“I take this matter seriously and as a young driver and a role model I realise the importance of setting a good example.”

The swimmer received an Order of Australia (OAM) on January 25, honouring his achievements in sport.