21/06/2005
NEWS STORY
As the United States, indeed the rest of the world, continues to debate Sunday's Indianapolis shambles, Bernie Ecclestone has managed to upset the American public even more.
The Englishman is known for his sense of humour, his quick wit, and (at times) the ability to turn most things into "a laugh". However, there are times when quips are not the done thing.
At present, as Americans debate whether the F1 circus should ever be allowed into the country again, IRL racer, Danica Patrick is its darling.
The American, who finished fourth in the recent Indy 500, having made history by becoming the first woman to lead the legendary event, has wooed the US public, which can't get enough of her.
Seemingly, wherever you look, there are magazines, posters and T-Shirts featuring her image - America loves her, and so too does motorsport which is getting some much welcome publicity.
However, asked about Patrick at the weekend, Bernie made a comment that went down like a lead balloon, and merely added to Formula One's woes.
Asked on live television what he thought about young her, he replied: "You know, I've got one of those wonderful ideas, women should be dressed in white like all the other domestic appliances."
Oh Bernie!