What Bernie Ecclestone told Donald Trump about failed F1 grand prix

Bernie Ecclestone has revealed what he once told US President Donald Trump over a failed bid to bring F1 to America.

In the early 2010s, whilst F1 had no presence in the United States after leaving Indianapolis in 2007, Ecclestone tried to organise the Grand Prix of the Americas at a street circuit in New Jersey, with the Manhattan skyline serving as a backdrop.

The race was announced in 2011 as being on the 2013 calendar, but following repeated delays with the promoter, the race was finally abandoned for good in 2015. 

However, Ecclestone, who was removed from his position as F1 CEO when Liberty Media assumed control in 2017, dealt with Trump, who was just a New York property developer-turned-host of The Apprentice. 

Negotiating with Trump proved a hurdle for Ecclestone, with the future 45th and 47th president posing a roadblock as he insisted on having his name prominent on trackside and other advertising. 

Reflecting on the failed bid, Ecclestone revealed to The Telegraph what he said to Trump. 

"I eventually said to him: 'Do you know what? The only thing you haven't asked is to have your name on is the toilet paper."

Former second-hand car dealer Ecclestone also remarked on Trump's self-promoted ability to make and cut deals, observing that "I would love to have had him as a partner in my used-car business." 

Then just an ex-president, Trump attended the 2024 Miami Grand Prix, sending a message of congratulations to McLaren's Lando Norris as he won his first race, before going onto return to the White House following victory over then-vice president Kamala Harris in November's election.