Formula 1 distances itself from controversial Ecclestone comments

Formula 1 has acted swiftly to disassociate itself with controversial comments from former boss Bernie Ecclestone.

In an interview with CNN, the 89-year-old said that "in lots of cases, black people are more racist than what white people are".

Recently, F1 has launched the #WeRaceAsOne initiative, Lewis Hamilton has created 'The Hamilton Commission', and the FIA has also engaged in activities to make the motorsport industry a more inclusive environment.

In an interview with CNN, Ecclestone began by praising the work done specifically by Hamilton, before making his contentious comment.

"At a time when unity is needed to tackle racism and inequality, we completely disagree with Bernie Ecclestone’s comments that have no place in Formula 1 or society," read a statement from F1.

It continued by confirming that Ecclestone was no longer associated with F1 in any way as his honorary position as chairman emeritus expiring at the turn of the year.

F1 said: "Mr Ecclestone has played no role in Formula 1 since he left our organisation in 2017, his title Chairman Emeritus, being honorific, expired in January 2020."

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