Sep.25 (GMM) Bernie Ecclestone has downplayed suggestions that Formula 1’s authorities deliberately buried the truth of the 2008 ‘Crashgate’ scandal, just weeks before Felipe Massa’s lawsuit reaches a London court.
The former F1 supremo, who turns 95 on the opening day of the October 28 hearings, told The Times there was never a mechanism for cancelling the controversial Singapore GP that year – despite Massa’s claims the race should have been annulled.
“There is no way in the world anyone could change or cancel that race,” Ecclestone said. “There were no provisions for that to happen.
“Max (Mosley) knew there was not enough evidence at the time to do anything.”
He insisted the late FIA president had not sought a cover-up. “Max was not saying we should cover this up but just that it was not good for the image of Formula 1,” Ecclestone added.
Massa, the Brazilian ex-Ferrari driver, who narrowly lost the 2008 title to Lewis Hamilton, argues the Renault team’s deliberate crash should have voided the race – a stance bolstered last year when Ecclestone was quoted in Germany saying Hamilton “shouldn’t have” been champion.
But the Briton now says that comment has been misused.
“This was an interview I gave to someone in Germany. The guy at the time, his English wasn’t that good and he was taking notes. It was picked up by someone in England,” Ecclestone explained.
“I didn’t even remember the bloody interview until the lawyers submitted it. The lawyers for myself, the FIA and F1 do not understand how it can be heard in a court.”
Massa, 44, continues to call the affair a “conspiracy” that harmed both himself and Brazil, framing his legal action as a moral fight for justice and a precedent for the future.
He is claiming tens of millions in damages.
The Monaco Grand Prix, often called the crown jewel of Formula 1, is one of the most prestigious races in the world and part of the Triple Crown of Motorsport alongside the Indy 500 and 24 Hours of Le Mans. Starting in 2026, the race will move from May to June to better align with the F1 schedule, placing the Canadian Grand Prix earlier in the season. Grand Prix Tours has taken care of all of the details and has arranged an amazing motorsports vacation. Call 949 719 3350 to book your trip or to contact us with any questions.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Austrian Grand Prix at the iconic Red Bull Ring; a fan favorite that rarely disappoints. Set in Austria’s stunning Styrian Hills, this scenic circuit is famous for its dramatic elevation changes and thrilling uphill turns. We’ve planned every detail so you can relax and enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours at the legendary Silverstone Circuit for the 2026 British Grand Prix; the birthplace of modern F1. This isn’t just race weekend; you’ll visit the British Motor Museum, explore the Silverstone Museum, and enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Oracle Red Bull Racing Factory. With over 40 years of experience hosting this trip, we’ve thought of every detail for the ultimate F1 fan experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 32nd Goodwood Festival of Speed in the South of England, a long summer weekend celebrating the greatest moments in motorsport. Held at the magnificent Goodwood House, this world-renowned event showcases an unparalleled collection of historic and modern racing cars from the past 125 years. We’ve taken care of every detail so you can enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Grand Prix Tours delivers the ultimate 2026 Belgian Grand Prix experience on July 19 at the legendary Spa-Francorchamps. Famed for its stunning setting, rich racing history, and iconic corners like Eau Rouge, Spa offers one of Formula 1’s most thrilling weekends, complete with unpredictable weather and nonstop action. With only a one-year contract in place, this could be your last chance to witness F1 at this historic circuit.
SHOW PACKAGES
Experience Northern Italy like a true motorsport insider on our Italian Extravaganza, the perfect lead-in to the Italian Grand Prix. Journey through the heart of Italy’s legendary supercar region with exclusive access and behind-the-scenes insights into iconic brands like Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Pagani, and more. Along the way, enjoy a unique visit to a family-run balsamic vinegar producer for an authentic tasting experience. For car enthusiasts, this is the ultimate way to elevate your Italian Grand Prix weekend.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours in Northern Italy for the unforgettable 2026 Italian Grand Prix at Monza. With over 95 years of racing history, passionate Ferrari fans, and electrifying post-race celebrations, Monza delivers one of the most thrilling weekends in motorsport. Enjoy a seamless experience with accommodations in stunning Como, airport and track transfers, and an exclusive pre-race dinner with a racing celebrity, backed by our 40+ years of expertise at this iconic event.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours in Austin, Texas for the high-energy 2026 United States Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas. Experience nonstop action on one of Formula 1’s most exciting tracks, featuring dramatic elevation changes, thrilling overtakes, and a packed race weekend. Off the track, enjoy a festival atmosphere with live music, world-famous BBQ, and buzzing nightlife. Your Grand Prix Tours package includes a fully curated race weekend, highlighted by exclusive access to our private F1 Celebrity Talk Show, where guests gain insider insights and behind-the-scenes perspectives. With demand soaring and this event quickly becoming a modern American racing tradition, now is the time to secure your spot for an unforgettable Austin Grand Prix experience.
SHOW PACKAGES