JANUARY 24, 2014

Mercedes happy about Ecclestone's lesser F1 role

Mercedes has welcomed Bernie Ecclestone's departure from the F1 board.

The embattled 83-year-old Briton remains chief executive, but his decision-making power has been diminished while he faces criminal court in Germany over the bribery affair.

Mercedes, known for its sensitivity when it comes to ethical matters, welcomed Ecclestone's diminished role at the top of the sport.

"With the start of the court procedures Bernie Ecclestone is suspending his duties as director of (F1 parent company) Delta Topco with immediate effect," a spokesman for the German carmaker said.

"We welcome these measures," the spokesman told F1 business journalist Christian Sylt, according to City A.M.

(GMM)