Bernie Ecclestone's Billion-Dollar Journey: From F1 Supremo to Collector Extraordinaire
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Age: 94 years old (born October 28, 1930)
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Height: 1.59 meters (5 feet 2 inches)
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Business Ventures: Former chief executive of the Formula One Group; previously owned the Brabham racing team; involved in various investments, including a notable collection of historic racing cars.
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Net Worth: Estimated at $4 billion as of 2024
How Did Bernie Ecclestone Get So Rich?
Bernie Ecclestone's ascent to billionaire status is a tale of strategic acumen and an unyielding passion for motorsport. Initially a driver and team owner, Ecclestone's true financial breakthrough came when he centralized the commercial rights of Formula One (F1). By negotiating television deals and sponsorships, he transformed F1 from a niche sport into a global spectacle, reaping substantial profits in the process.
How Much Did Bernie Ecclestone Sell Formula One For?
In 2017, Ecclestone sold his controlling stake in F1 to Liberty Media for approximately $4.6 billion. This monumental deal marked the end of his four-decade reign over the sport, solidifying his status as one of the wealthiest figures in the sporting world.
Related: Bernie Ecclestone to Sell Legendary Car Collection Worth Hundreds of Millions
What Business Does Bernie Ecclestone Own?
Ecclestone decided to diversify his portfolio once his stake in F1 was sold
Post-F1, Ecclestone diversified his portfolio, investing in various sectors including real estate and automotive collections. Notably, he amassed an impressive collection of historic Formula One cars, reflecting his enduring passion for the sport.
Does Bernie Ecclestone Still Own F1?
No, Ecclestone no longer holds any ownership in Formula One. Following the 2017 sale to Liberty Media, he stepped down from his executive role, severing formal ties with the organization.
What Is He Doing Now?
According to The Telegraph, at the age of 94, Ecclestone remains active in managing his personal investments. In March 2025, he sold his extensive collection of 69 historic F1 cars to Mark Mateschitz, heir to the Red Bull fortune, for an estimated £500 million ($646 million). This sale was motivated by Ecclestone's desire to ensure the cars would be publicly displayed and preserved for future generations.
Despite stepping back from the forefront of F1, Ecclestone continues to share his insights on the sport. Recently, he expressed confidence in Max Verstappen's potential to clinch the 2025 World Championship, highlighting his ongoing engagement with the racing community.
Conclusion
Bernie Ecclestone shaped F1 into the global powerhouse it is today. His influence made the sport prestigious, lucrative, and larger than life. His legendary car collection was a symbol of his deep connection to F1, making its sale a surprising move from the man who was the face of the sport. Even at 94, Ecclestone’s legacy is unshakable. Formula One wouldn’t be what it is without him.
