Former McLaren boss Martin Whitmarsh believes that the new ownership of Formula One is a good opportunity for them to inject new ideas to make the sport more appealing for fans.
After Liberty Media officially took control of F1, they ousted Bernie Ecclestone of the role that he had occupied for the past 40 years. Ecclestone's replacement Chase Carey, along with Ross Brawn and Sean Bratches are keen to do things differently.
"It's a new era but it's been a long time coming," Whitmarsh said. "There comes a time in any enterprising sport where it's time for fresh ideas and fresh views and I think Formula 1 has probably come to that point.
"I'm a Formula One fan still and I loved it, I was in it for 25 years but it's nice watching it from afar and I intend to continue to do that. But it's going to grow, live sporting content is so valuable."
Whitmarsh also paid tribute to Ecclestone, as he knew and worked with him for many years. Although they didn't always see eye to eye, Whitmarsh holds respect for him.
"You've got to give Bernie lots of credit because he was really the driving force in the early days of Formula One," he continued.
"He's got that twinkle of charm about him. I was one of his biggest enemies on lots of occasions but you can't help but like the guy. You've got to give him lots of credit for what Formula One is today."
Fergal Walsh
Local time
Local time
Bahrain International Circuit - Winter testing
Replies (0)
Login to reply