Ecclestone no longer the boss of Formula 1, Ross Brawn in the new organization chart!

The question was on the lips of all Formula 1 followers: when would the 86-year-old Briton hand over the reins? The fall of 2016 had already marked a first historic turning point with the announcement of the acquisition of Formula 1 by Liberty Media, for the modest sum of 4.4 billion dollars. A conglomerate operating in the United States in the media, entertainment, and sports industries, Liberty Media is owned by millionaire John Malone. At the same time as the acquisition announcement, Chase Carey was appointed as the owner of the Formula One Group. Threatened by the vice president of the very famous 21st Century Fox, Bernie Ecclestone was set to remain the CEO of the company for a maximum period of three years.

The creator father is deprived of his jewel!

But everything really accelerated after the recent officialization of the transaction by Liberty Media shareholders and the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile. The now former chief financier of Formula 1 told the German newspaper Auto Motor und Sport that he was officially replaced this Monday: “I’m leaving, it’s official. I’m no longer the head of the company. My position has been filled.”

A few hours later, the new announcement was confirmed by the new majority shareholder, and the voice of Chase Carey himself. The 63-year-old American took the opportunity to give a big nod to his predecessor: “I would like to acknowledge and thank Bernie for his work throughout these decades. The sport is where it is today thanks to him and his executive leadership talents. He will always be part of the Formula 1 family.”

As a symbolic compensation, Mr. E was offered the title of honorary president: Bernie’s role will ideally suit his immense contribution to the sport. I am fully grateful for his success achieved over the years in Formula 1, concluded Chase Carey on the subject.

In passing, this news puts Ecclestone in a certain embarrassment. He is now also not sure of retaining his position on the World Motor Sport Council. According to his own words, he will have to speak with Jean Todt, the president of the FIA. In any case, the former supremo has shown great pride in his masterfully crafted work: « I am proud of the business I have built over the last 40 years, as well as everything I have accomplished with Formula 1. I would like to thank all the promoters, sponsors, media, and teams I have worked with. I am delighted with the deal with Liberty Media. I am sure Chase will execute his role in a way that will be beneficial. »

After all these years of rule, the season opener in Melbourne will therefore be the first without the former owner of the Brabham team at its helm. Let’s recall that this team had allowed him to become a distinguished member of the Formula One Constructors Association and gradually establish himself as a cornerstone of this sport, notably through the sale of television rights.

The comeback of a big name!

In the wake of this, the new executive chief took the opportunity to announce two significant new appointments. Former vice-president for the American media company ESPN, Sean Bratches becomes the director of commercial operations. But most notably, Ross Brawn officially returns to the Formula 1 circuit, in the role of chief sports director.

In an interview with the official Formula 1 website, Chase Carey commented on the arrival of the man with 14 world titles as the technical director: “I am delighted with Ross’s return to Formula 1. He has brought a magic touch to every team he has worked with. His experience in both technical and human aspects of the field is one of a kind! I have already greatly benefited from his advice and expertise.”

Retired at the end of 2013 after his experience with Mercedes, the Briton confirmed the existence of these early discussions: “This is fantastic for me to return to the world of Formula 1. I have already been consulted by Liberty Media in recent months. I can’t wait to work with everyone to help evolve this sport. We have an almost unprecedented opportunity to act together – teams and promoters – for a better F1, especially for the fans!”