04/09/2011
NEWS STORY
Following an MP's demand for a full explanation of how the Sky F1 TV coverage deal came about, Bernie Ecclestone has accused the politician of not being realistic.
Lib Dem MP Don Foster has written to both BBC Director General Mark Thompson and Bernie Ecclestone asking them to shed light on the deal that has outraged F1 fans in Britain.
Forster, like the fans, wants to know who was responsible for the shock move which means that fans who want to see all the 2012 race live will have to subscribe to Sky Sport, the BBC having agreed a deal which sees it retain live coverage of just half the events.
While both Ecclestone and the BBC have praised the deal, insisting that it is fantastic news for the fans, when it comes to saying who actually orchestrated the move both parties appear to point the finger at the other.
Reacting to Forster's call for clarification however, Ecclestone suggested to the Express that the MP was naive and not understanding of the situation.
"It is not realistic; he clearly does not understand the situation," said the F1 supremo. "We would have loved to have stayed with the BBC but they could guarantee nothing."
Hopefully Mr Thompson and Mr Ecclestone will help us all to understand since Mr Foster doesn't appear to be the only one confused.