‘Ecclestone legacy not fully realised,’ says Horner
Christian Horner believes it will take time for Formula 1 to fully appreciate Bernie Ecclestone’s achievements with in the sport.
Following the completion of Liberty Media’s takeover of Formula 1, Ecclestone was ousted as CEO with American executive Chase Carey now holing the reins.
Horner considers Ecclestone’s absence will be felt this year although he is optimistic about bthe future under the guidance the sport’s new owners.
“What Ecclestone has done for the sport is quite incredible and I think it will probably take a little bit of time for that realisation to sink in,” Horner said.
“The encouraging things about the new owners are they are very focused on what they want Formula 1 to be in terms of an entertainment, in terms of a sporting spectacle.
“They seem very keen to embrace ideas to make the sport more accessible and to make it more entertaining.
“We’re certainly looking forward to hearing their plans and understanding their plans as they move forward.”
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Liberty’s Carey has said that the company will take hold of F1 gradually as contractual obligations prevent many core changes while a sudden disruption would also not be in the sport’s interests.
Several areas may warrant immediate change however, and Horner is interested in hearing more about this along with his colleagues at an upcoming meeting planned with the executives of The Formula One Group.
“I think there is a meeting in the next couple of weeks for an initial discussion to take place,” Horner said.
“I think in immediacy what we can see is that Formula 1 will perhaps be made slightly more accessible.
“We’ve seen a relaxation of social media regulations, so I’m sure you’ve seen more content out online, but in terms of the product, the product is what it is for this year and probably the next couple of years.
“I think what we’re interested in is further down the line is what are Liberty’s plans? What are Ross Brawn’s thoughts on what Formula 1 should be moving forward?”
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