Ecclestone fed up with Mercedes 'bullying': 'Scratches their star'

Bernie Ecclestone is praising Max Verstappen after winning his first world title. The former CEO of Formula 1 is less enthusiastic about Mercedes.

From day one Ecclestone has been a big fan of Verstappen. The former Formula 1 chief, who likes a bit of controversy, has enjoyed Verstappen. The Brit mentioned earlier that he thought Mercedes was bullying Verstappen to win the psychological battle. The 91-year-old is therefore very impressed that Verstappen won the title despite that pressure.

''At a very young age, he is already up against Lewis Hamilton, one of the best drivers ever. And that while the Mercedes team has gone out of its way to bully him, to upset him. Mercedes also has the best car. That makes Verstappen's performance even more valuable. He makes the difference in the race'', says Ecclestone to De Telegraaf.

Besides the fact that Mercedes was bullying Verstappen, the brand is also smearing Formula 1 with their protests, according to Ecclestone. ''With this attitude they are scratching their own star.'' According to Ecclestone, the sport is going down because of the team bosses who just want to exert influence and, in his opinion, it is a shame that the sport was overshadowed in this way.