Ecclestone backs Schumacher’s quit move
6 October, 2012
Oct.6 (GMM) Despite losing one of Formula One’s biggest draw cards, Bernie Ecclestone has come out in support of Michael Schumacher’s decision to finally retire.
“It is the right time for Michael to go,” the F1 chief executive is quoted by Express newspaper.
The 81-year-old Briton was a big supporter of the great German’s return to F1, but at the tail-end of 2012 he admits: “There have been a few too many shunts and another one in practice today [at Suzuka on Friday].”
When he made the big announcement, Schumacher admitted that Mercedes’ signing of Lewis Hamilton had made his decision to quit easier.
“I think it is good if someone comes along and helps you make a decision,” said Ecclestone. “It happens for the right reasons usually.”
He is worried, however, that Schumacher is tempting fate by deciding to quit with a full six races left to run in 2012.
“God forbid that anything should happen to such a great driver in the next few races when he is looking forward to a new life,” said Ecclestone.
He recalls, years ago, Niki Lauda’s decision to retire for the first time – during a mid-season practice session.
“I said [to Lauda] ‘if you are going to retire, go now, don’t wait, anything else doesn’t make sense’.
“And Niki left there and then. Left his overalls and helmet and went. It was the right thing to do,” said Ecclestone.
Subbed by AJN.
Related posts:
- Briatore says Schumacher made smart decision to quit
- Lauda admits convincing Hamilton to quit McLaren and join Mercedes
- Mercedes have no immediate plans to quit F1
- Brawn and Ecclestone battle may lead Mercedes to quit F1
- Ralf backs Michael after Hungary move
O come on . . . .
Mercedes dumped him?
Schumaher’s indecision led to mercedes sigining hamilton.
Hats off to the man’s integrity and honesty, he would have signed for Mercedes long time ago. Then if Mercedes would have ousted him (as many believe they have) he would have taken £10-15 million.
Hats off to a legend
Are you out of your mind? After dumping him like a rag by merc. He can’t leave this way. He must do something to exit gracefully. Like win! Bernie has lots of cash from the bribes that it is easy for him to let go. Schumi like any other is just a commodity to him. Sa sad f1!