F1: Ecclestone backs drivers' call for reform

Bernie Ecclestone has agreed with the drivers that Formula 1's governance is in need of urgent reform.

On Wednesday, the Grand Prix Drivers' Association published an open letter stating F1's decision-making process is "obsolete and ill-structured." In response, F1 chief executive Ecclestone has sided with the drivers, but has also, in some respects, thrown the ball back in their court by suggesting how they would go about change.

Ecclestone states: "It is not always easy to agree with you but you are correct in stating that the decision making process in the sport is obsolete and ill structured. We must, as you have stated, urge the owners and all the stakeholders of Formula 1 to consider restructuring its own governance.

"It is easy to analyze what is wrong so why not think and come back on this. At least it is better to think before you wish."

Ecclestone tried to interject a degree of humor into his response as he added: "I have been in Formula 1 for nearly 50 years in an active role and another 18 involved in some way. You state that every individual acts with the very best intentions. I am not sure if this is a misprint. If not, it should read, 'with their very best intentions.'"

Ecclestone feels the drivers had every right to voice their concerns, telling Autosport: "They're entitled to an opinion."

Originally on Autosport.com