Image courtesy of the BBC
Always controversial and outspoken, Bernie Ecclestone has openly stated in an interview with the BBC that he would “happily step down” if it meant bringing in such giants as Audi.
The Volkswagen Automobile Group – which includes Audi, Bentley, Bugatti, Lamborghini, Porsche, SEAT, Skoda, and of course Volkswagen – would ostensibly be a powerful force if even one company – such as Audi – joined Formula 1 as a works team. However, chairman Ferdinand Piech’s dislike of Ecclestone has been reported in the past and is rumoured to be a roadblock for any potential movement forward for any brand within the VW Group entering Formula 1.
Ecclestone claims to have been unaware.
“Nobody’s told me that. If that is the case, I’ll leave”, he said.
The VW Group conducted a feasibility study in November / December, 2014, to determine whether Audi’s entry into F1 would be viable. Support exists within the company for such a move; supporters also feel F1 would be a more effective marketing and promotional tool.
“I would be happy to step down immediately to bring those people in for sure. Absolutely serious. It’s true.”
