Ecclestone trial set to begin

[DrLeftover]

24 April 2014,
Ecclestone trial set to begin

The future of Formula One is poised to be shaped by what transpires in a Munich courtroom over the next few months.

Bernie Ecclestone, who has ruled the sport unchallenged for almost 40 years, goes on trial on Thursday charged with bribery which could see him imprisoned for 10 years if found guilty.

At the age of 83, Ecclestone has already made tentative noises with regard to a succession plan, stating last month he has been looking over the past few years for someone to assist and then take over.

If found guilty, even if Ecclestone avoids jail time and is instead punished with a severe financial penalty, the writing is on the wall.

Donald Mackenzie, co-chairman of F1's current majority shareholders CVC Capital Partners, has already stated Ecclestone will be sacked if convicted.

It is understood CVC have tentative plans in place for the worst-case scenario, although they have yet to be revealed.

One certainty is Ecclestone's iron-like grip over the teams, circuits and media will finally be relinquished.

http://web.orange.co.uk/article/sports/ecclestone_trial_set_to_begin