Posted on 23rd January 2017
It was announced this evening that Bernie Ecclestone has lost his position as the CEO of the Formula One Group and has been replaced by Chase Carey, with Ross Brawn poised to be appointed in a new role as well.
Ecclestone says he has been offered the title of honorary president, but has acknowledged that he does not know what his role will be.
It is understood that the change will be formally announced on Tuesday, along with the key appointments of Brawn and former ESPN man Sean Bratches, who will take up newly created sporting and commercial roles respectively.
In an interview with Auto Motor und Sport today, Ecclestone broke the news to the publication; insisting that he doesn't know entirely what his new role will be in the sport.
“I was deposed today,” said Ecclestone. “I am simply gone. It’s official. I am no longer the leader of the company. My position has been taken by Chase Carey.
“My new position is one of those American terms. It’s something like an honorary president. I have this title now, even though I don’t know what it means.”
When asked about his future Ecclestone added the following:- “My days in the office will be getting quieter now. Maybe I will attend a grand prix sometime in the future.
“I still have many friends in Formula 1. And I still have enough money to afford to attend a race.”
Ecclestone doesn’t expect to retain his seat on the World Motor Sport Council.
“I doubt it,” he said. “First of all, I have to talk to [FIA president] Jean Todt about this.”
Sarah Jones- @jonesy_laaa
