Bernie hits back at TV critics

Bernie Ecclestone told a leading Lib Dem MP he was “not realistic" after being challenged for switching most grand prix coverage to Sky.

The new deal from next season means the BBC will show only 10 live races, half the championship, while Sky will televise the whole series but on their subscription-only sports channel.

Bernie Ecclestone said the move was forced on the BBC because of cost-cutting. But Don Foster quoted him as saying: “The BBC brought Sky to us with the idea of a joint contract. It was not us who made that decision."

He then told him: “I am alarmed that there is such a gulf between your stories."

Yet Ecclestone said last night: “It is not realistic; he clearly does not understand the situation.

“We would have loved to have stayed with the BBC but they could guarantee nothing."