Bernie Ecclestone Quotes

Powerful Bernie Ecclestone for Daily Growth

About Bernie Ecclestone

Bernie Ecclestone (born Bernhard Marc Écclestone on October 28, 1930) is a British business magnate, former Formula One racing driver, and the longest-serving CEO of Formula One Group. Born in Sutton Coldfield, Warwickshire, England, he grew up surrounded by cars as his father ran a garage. This early exposure to automobiles ignited Ecclestone's passion for racing. After a brief stint as a driver, winning the British Racing and Sports Car Club Formula 3 championship in 1958, Ecclestone turned his attention towards the business side of motorsport. In 1972, he became the chief executive of the Formula One Constructors' Association (FOCA), where he negotiated lucrative television contracts that significantly boosted the sport's commercial viability. In 1978, Ecclestone bought a controlling stake in FOCA and, with a sharp business acumen, transformed Formula One into a multi-billion-dollar industry. He served as CEO of the Formula One Group from 1978 to 2017, overseeing its growth and global expansion. His tenure was marked by controversial decisions, such as introducing a 'Concorde Agreement' that centralized power in the hands of race promoters and team owners. Ecclestone is known for his outspoken personality, which often landed him in headlines. Despite criticisms, he remains an influential figure in motorsport, leaving behind a lasting impact on Formula One racing. His quotes, laden with blunt honesty and practical wisdom, have become iconic in the world of sports business: "I've always believed that the best decisions in business are made on the back of a cigarette packet," and "Money is not a moneymaker; you make money out of money." His autobiography, 'The Ecclestone Formula,' published in 2015, offers further insights into his life and career.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts."

This quote by Bernie Ecclestone emphasizes resilience in the face of success or failure. Success may be temporary, but continuing with courage and determination ensures long-term progress. Failure does not mean defeat; instead, it provides an opportunity to learn and grow stronger for future endeavors. The ability to persevere and maintain a strong spirit despite setbacks is what truly defines success in life and career.


"If you can't overtake on the track, then you overtake off the track."

This quote by Bernie Ecclestone highlights the importance of competition in racing. When drivers are unable to overtake their rivals during a race due to restrictions on the track, they may attempt to gain an advantage off the track, often through strategic maneuvers or pit stops. The essence of this statement is that innovation and resourcefulness should be employed when direct competition is not possible within the formal rules of the sport.


"Money is a horrible master but an excellent servant."

This quote suggests that while money can be a powerful, controlling force when it is the primary focus or "master", it becomes a beneficial tool for achieving one's goals when properly managed or used as a "servant". In essence, it highlights the importance of financial resources in facilitating success and ambitions but warns against allowing them to dictate one's values, priorities, or decisions.


"I don't make friends easily because I don't need them. It's enough for me to have money and power."

This quote suggests that Bernie Ecclestone values wealth and power more than personal relationships. He implies that having money and power in life is sufficient for him, and he doesn't feel a need to cultivate friendships for their own sake. It might be interpreted as a reflection of his priorities and perspective on success, which seem focused on material and influential aspects rather than emotional connections.


"In business, you must always be prepared to walk away from the deal."

This quote by Bernie Ecclestone emphasizes the importance of having a strategic mindset in business negotiations. It suggests that one should never feel compelled to accept any agreement if it does not align with their interests or values, even if it seems like a good opportunity at first glance. Walking away from a deal can sometimes be the best course of action when the terms are unfavorable or when trust is lacking. This stance demonstrates confidence, foresight, and a willingness to prioritize long-term success over immediate gains. It's a reminder that not every opportunity is worth pursuing and that being able to walk away from a bad deal can lead to better outcomes in the future.


They say Formula One is a market which it can't be, obviously. Our market is independent, it's a sport.

- Bernie Ecclestone

Independent, Say, Which, Formula One

What we need now is a Treaty of the World not a Treaty of Rome.

- Bernie Ecclestone

World, Rome, Need, Treaty

People want to build new circuits around the world and they say: 'We'll come to Silverstone and have a look how it's done', and I tell them to stay away.

- Bernie Ecclestone

New, Want, Away, They Say

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