Bernie Ecclestone has dismissed as a "big misunderstanding" the
international furore created by his recent interview with London's Times
newspaper.
Not only was the F1 chief executive's apparent defence of Adolf Hitler
condemned by Jewish groups, it is believed sections of the Formula One
world argue it is evidence the 78-year-old should retire.
"All this is a big misunderstanding," Ecclestone told Germany's Bild
newspaper.
"In the interview we were talking about structures and that it can
sometimes be good to act and make strong decisions without reservation,"
he explained.
"I wasn't using Hitler as a positive example, but pointing out that
before his dreadful crimes he worked successfully against unemployment and
economic problems," said Ecclestone.
The wide-circulation German newspaper asked the Briton if he felt the need
to apologise.
"It was never my intention to hurt the feelings of any community," Bernie
replied. "Many people in my closest circle of friends are Jewish.
"Anyone who knows me knows that I would never attack a minority," he
added.
