Formula One | Carey explains Ecclestone's departure: 'Lack of growth over the last five years'

In his first interview as CEO given to Sky Sports, Chase Carey explained the reasons that pushed Liberty Media to "oust" Bernie Ecclestone from the role of CEO of Formula One.

According to the American manager, the Circus has failed to keep up with the innovations of our century over the last five years, a factor that has blocked its growth from an economic point of view. Carey, remember, will be joined by Ross Brawn and Sean Bratches. The first will deal with the innovations to be introduced on a technical level while the second, drawing on his experience at ESPN, will aim to expand the brand.

Here are the words of Chase Carey, CEO of Formula One: “We have obviously made our assessments and in our opinion there has been a stop in growth in the last five years. The sport has not grown to its full potential. A shake-up was needed and a change could give that right dose of motivation which in our opinion has been missing in recent years. Ross (Brawn.ndr) collaborated with us during the acquisition phase and I am sure that he will be able to give the right advice for the sporting growth of F1. Sean Bratches will take care of the economic side and I am sure that together we will bring Formula One back to the top."

“I have the utmost respect for Bernie Ecclestone and his work” he continued. “His advice has been fundamental in recent months, especially after the OK from the FIA, and I realize that it is not easy, but I am sure that together we will be able to do well. He will no longer have an executive role, but we will try to grow a toy that he has been able to bring to this point. He will always be part of this family."

Roberto Valenti