In an interesting interview at Reuters, former Formula 1 boss Bernie Eccelstone says he would scrap the 2020 season at this point. While current F1 boss, Chase Carey, says they are hoping to resume the season at the Canadian Grand Prix, the series is targeting a 15-race season. Ecclestone said:
“Today what would I do? I think I’d have to say we’re going to close down talk of having any races this year,” said the Briton.
“That’s the only thing you could do safely for everybody so nobody starts making silly arrangements which may not be able to happen.”
“Which is what they had to do for the Olympics of course. It’s unfortunate but that’s how it is,” added Ecclestone.
It is unknown whether F1 can achieve their 15-18 race season and there have been suggestions that the series look to a “super season” concept running races through what would normally be the winter break. Ecclestone says he would be surprised if the series manages to achieve 15-18 races.
“I’d be very, very, very surprised if they managed to achieve that,” said Ecclestone, the sound of a chicken clucking loudly in the background.
“I hope they do. I really hope they do. They could run three or four races at the beginning of next year and still count to the 2020 championship.
“The problem is where are you going to have them where the teams can go and the promoter wants to run a race.
“It’s all very well making the calendar, which you can do while you wait. The big problem is getting the promoters to want to run the race.”
With Chase Carey never missing an opportunity to be critical of Ecclestone’s leadership in the past, it is interesting to see Ecclestone take what he thinks might happen in Carey’s world. You can see the rest of the interview here.
Hat Tip: Reuters
