Stewart launches an attack against Ecclestone

Former world champion Jackie Stewart has launched a scathing attack on F1’s chief financier, Bernie Ecclestone. He claims that the Briton has too much power, lacks a succession plan, and takes too much money at the sport’s expense.

We knew Mr. Stewart for his criticisms of the FIA president, Max Mosley, but in a lengthy interview with the Times, he redirected his attention to Ecclestone. He suggests major changes that he believes are essential at the head of F1.

« The era of great changes is now essential because sports have experienced significant growth, » said Stewart.

He took too long to realize things, he must recognize that other sports have matured for a long time and that these same sports have prepared themselves for the possibility of evolution.

He added: « I don’t think Bernie can bring about a phase of transition. So can he be his own successor? I say no. »

Stewart then directed his argument to the thorny issue of finances: « The teams received the full investment capital, yet they’re not receiving more than 50% of the revenue. »

« The teams receive almost no revenue from television, circuits, or sponsorships. How can they reinvest when they have little or no income outside of attendance tokens from spectators? »

Finally, the Briton also maintained his criticism of Mosley, whom he has long been asking to resign from his position as president of the FIA.

« I believe Max should completely withdraw from the FIA, motorsport, and the automotive industry. The FIA should replace him with someone who has no previous relationship within the organization or even in motorsport. »

« The FIA should find a CEO who will rebuild the organization in line with current practices to satisfy investors in the sport and give the FIA complete transparency, » concluded Jackie Stewart.