What do you think?
Rate this book
Formuła 1 to ja. Bernie Ecclestone
'I'm no angel.' Bernie Ecclestone
Born into poverty, Bernie Ecclestone has made himself a billionaire by developing the world's second most popular sport - Formula One racing. Private, mysterious and some say sinister, the eighty-year-old criss-crosses the globe in his private jet, mixing with celebrities, statesmen and sporting heroes. His success is not just in creating a multibillion-pound global business but in resisting repeated attempts to snatch the glittering prize from his control.
Ecclestone has never before revealed how he graduated from selling second-hand cars in London's notorious Warren Street to become the major player he is today. He has finally decided to reveal his secrets: the deals, the marriages, the disasters and the successes in Formula One racing, in Downing Street, in casinos, on yachts and in the air.
Surprisingly, he has granted access to his inner circle to Tom Bower, described by Ecclestone as 'The Undertaker' - the man who buries reputations - and has given him access to all his friends and enemies. All have been told by Ecclestone, 'Tell him the truth, good or bad.'
No Angel is a classic rags-to-riches story, the unique portrayal of a unique man and an intriguing insight into Formula One racing, business and the human spirit. Tom Bower is the author of nineteen books, including biographies of Robert Maxwell, Mohamed Fayed, Gordon Brown, Richard Branson, Conrad Black and more recently, Simon Cowell.
Born into poverty, Bernie Ecclestone has made himself a billionaire by developing the world's second most popular sport - Formula One racing. Private, mysterious and some say sinister, the eighty-year-old criss-crosses the globe in his private jet, mixing with celebrities, statesmen and sporting heroes. His success is not just in creating a multibillion-pound global business but in resisting repeated attempts to snatch the glittering prize from his control.
Ecclestone has never before revealed how he graduated from selling second-hand cars in London's notorious Warren Street to become the major player he is today. He has finally decided to reveal his secrets: the deals, the marriages, the disasters and the successes in Formula One racing, in Downing Street, in casinos, on yachts and in the air.
Surprisingly, he has granted access to his inner circle to Tom Bower, described by Ecclestone as 'The Undertaker' - the man who buries reputations - and has given him access to all his friends and enemies. All have been told by Ecclestone, 'Tell him the truth, good or bad.'
No Angel is a classic rags-to-riches story, the unique portrayal of a unique man and an intriguing insight into Formula One racing, business and the human spirit. Tom Bower is the author of nineteen books, including biographies of Robert Maxwell, Mohamed Fayed, Gordon Brown, Richard Branson, Conrad Black and more recently, Simon Cowell.
368 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2011
75 people are currently reading
639 people want to read
About the author
Tom Bower
56 books177 followersFor the author of works on child development, see T.G.R. Bower
Tom Bower (born 28 September 1946) is a British writer, noted for his investigative journalism and for his unauthorized biographies.
A former Panorama reporter, his books include unauthorised biographies of Tiny Rowland, Robert Maxwell, Mohamed Al-Fayed, Geoffrey Robinson, Gordon Brown and Richard Branson.
He won the 2003 William Hill Sports Book of the Year Award for Broken Dreams, an investigation into corruption in English football. His joint biography of Conrad Black and Barbara Amiel Conrad and Lady Black: Dancing on the Edge was published in November 2006, and an unsuccessful libel case over a passing mention of Daily Express proprietor Richard Desmond in the book was heard in July 2009.
An unauthorised biography by Bower of Richard Desmond, provisionally entitled Rough Trader, awaits publication. Bowers's biography of Simon Cowell, written with Cowell's co-operation, was published on 20 April, 2012.
Bower is married to Veronica Wadley, former editor of the London Evening Standard, and has four children.
Tom Bower (born 28 September 1946) is a British writer, noted for his investigative journalism and for his unauthorized biographies.
A former Panorama reporter, his books include unauthorised biographies of Tiny Rowland, Robert Maxwell, Mohamed Al-Fayed, Geoffrey Robinson, Gordon Brown and Richard Branson.
He won the 2003 William Hill Sports Book of the Year Award for Broken Dreams, an investigation into corruption in English football. His joint biography of Conrad Black and Barbara Amiel Conrad and Lady Black: Dancing on the Edge was published in November 2006, and an unsuccessful libel case over a passing mention of Daily Express proprietor Richard Desmond in the book was heard in July 2009.
An unauthorised biography by Bower of Richard Desmond, provisionally entitled Rough Trader, awaits publication. Bowers's biography of Simon Cowell, written with Cowell's co-operation, was published on 20 April, 2012.
Bower is married to Veronica Wadley, former editor of the London Evening Standard, and has four children.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
May 10, 2014
A highly entertaining read. After three books that I never got invested in enough to finish (something I hate to do). I picked this one up with the hope that it would engage me. I have read Tom Bowers things before and enjoyed his in depth style and I'm a massive F1 fan so this should have been in my wheel house. I also really enjoying reading about entrepreneurs and Ecclestone is certainly one of the most successful ones out there.
What do we learn about Bernie and Formula One from this book? Well, Bernie Ecclestone is not a man I would trust, he will stitch you up as soon as look at you if he can see an advantage in it. The stories in the book show a man who says his word is his bond, but for Bernie the advantage is in the details, the bits others don't read or understand. Secondly, as an F1 fan I am worried about what will happen after Bernie is gone because he pretty much was the one man that turned F1 from a rich boys and their toys sport full of glamour and danger. Into a multimillion dollar business capable of turning mechanics into multi millionaires and driver into world wide heroes. He may have done some (many) dodgy deals to ensure his position at the top is secure and to create an amazing spectacle of a sport. But, he does not seem to have any succession plan in place, and when he finally is forced to give up his role the vultures will all swoop in and try to grab power. This is the story of an amazingly focused individual who grew up in relative poverty and through sheer force of will triumphed, the sad thing is he seems not to have enjoyed himself away from work, his focus is all about the business of F1 and not really the enjoyment of his riches. But never fear it looks like his ex-wife and daughters are going to have a hell of a party with his hard earned money and as it's all in trusts it should be a hell of a party without even much need to dip into anything more than the interest on the money. A really interesting book.
What do we learn about Bernie and Formula One from this book? Well, Bernie Ecclestone is not a man I would trust, he will stitch you up as soon as look at you if he can see an advantage in it. The stories in the book show a man who says his word is his bond, but for Bernie the advantage is in the details, the bits others don't read or understand. Secondly, as an F1 fan I am worried about what will happen after Bernie is gone because he pretty much was the one man that turned F1 from a rich boys and their toys sport full of glamour and danger. Into a multimillion dollar business capable of turning mechanics into multi millionaires and driver into world wide heroes. He may have done some (many) dodgy deals to ensure his position at the top is secure and to create an amazing spectacle of a sport. But, he does not seem to have any succession plan in place, and when he finally is forced to give up his role the vultures will all swoop in and try to grab power. This is the story of an amazingly focused individual who grew up in relative poverty and through sheer force of will triumphed, the sad thing is he seems not to have enjoyed himself away from work, his focus is all about the business of F1 and not really the enjoyment of his riches. But never fear it looks like his ex-wife and daughters are going to have a hell of a party with his hard earned money and as it's all in trusts it should be a hell of a party without even much need to dip into anything more than the interest on the money. A really interesting book.
December 13, 2018
"No Angel" is a nice way to say "I'm a son of a b*** who cares only about power". A punch in the gut. Personally, as a F1 fan for 40 years, the book was a jaw-dropping, eye-opening experience. I'll never be able to watch F1 races the same way again. Behind the pilot's competition, a much bigger fight happens hidden in the background. A fight for money and power, among unethical people who win by bending the rules.
The book covers the Ecclestone rise from nothing to a billionaire and all the challenges, disputes and enemies he collected in the process. Sometimes, it's hard to keep track of all that's going on. Highlights of the book are Ecclestone's role in the '70s, when he began to become powerful in the F1 scene; the negotiations in the '90s and '00s with banks and investment funds who bought the sport (but not its control); and the series of scandals that culminated in Max Mosley stepping down as the FIA president.
A book to rethink everything you thought you knew about F1.
The book covers the Ecclestone rise from nothing to a billionaire and all the challenges, disputes and enemies he collected in the process. Sometimes, it's hard to keep track of all that's going on. Highlights of the book are Ecclestone's role in the '70s, when he began to become powerful in the F1 scene; the negotiations in the '90s and '00s with banks and investment funds who bought the sport (but not its control); and the series of scandals that culminated in Max Mosley stepping down as the FIA president.
A book to rethink everything you thought you knew about F1.
December 21, 2017
This excellent and uncensored account of ex formula one grand prix supremo Bernie Ecclestone has been out for a few years. Even the hard hitting Bower was surprised at Ecclestone's total openness. From trawler man's son to multi billionaire Bernie got there with grit, hard work ,shrewd and canny negotiating skill and vision.
He moved an oily rag mechanics racing series to the world of champagne and superstars.
Of course wily and tough dealing and then success makes for many enemies-but it should not be forgotten that around-- 'or at least'-- 10,000 UK jobs were created by Bernie's vision for F1.
Of the 12 or so regular two car teams, ten (including French Renault and German Mercedes ) have always been mainly UK based. Only Italian Ferrari and Swiss Sauber are mainly home based. Along with fame and glory on the track F1's many battles, squabbles ,plots and intrigues have tended to have been fought in the glare of the media spotlight. There is no doubt that CVC the previous investors who paid Bernie some of his billions for their involvement failed to put back much into the sport...and despite his vision and massive investment creating the global TV spectacular that the races became, Bernie then got a little left behind by social media. (Haven't we all!) New owners Liberty Media claim to be committed to digital modernisation and on investing. I fear that with F1 being an unknown quantity for very US orientated Liberty they will not do well. With the massive change away from terrestrial TV , then to pay per view cable Liberty could have done well ten years ago. Now with the amalgamations taking place in that world I think they have missed the boat. They will get some online legacy earnings...but slowly with out mainstream coverage the races will die. Liberty have taken on the skilled and successful but these days sanctimonious Ross Braun as their 'racing advisor'. But between the overly green politics of Paris based motor sport regulating body the FIA, Braun and despite - or more likely 'because of' Liberty I think for Bernie: 'You retired at the right time.' For the fans I fear for a slow and sad death by regulation and Trump style TV hype. Thank you, thank you, Bernie for all the good years...and you deserve that 'never will be awarded knighthood' for creating all those jobs for 40 years.
He moved an oily rag mechanics racing series to the world of champagne and superstars.
Of course wily and tough dealing and then success makes for many enemies-but it should not be forgotten that around-- 'or at least'-- 10,000 UK jobs were created by Bernie's vision for F1.
Of the 12 or so regular two car teams, ten (including French Renault and German Mercedes ) have always been mainly UK based. Only Italian Ferrari and Swiss Sauber are mainly home based. Along with fame and glory on the track F1's many battles, squabbles ,plots and intrigues have tended to have been fought in the glare of the media spotlight. There is no doubt that CVC the previous investors who paid Bernie some of his billions for their involvement failed to put back much into the sport...and despite his vision and massive investment creating the global TV spectacular that the races became, Bernie then got a little left behind by social media. (Haven't we all!) New owners Liberty Media claim to be committed to digital modernisation and on investing. I fear that with F1 being an unknown quantity for very US orientated Liberty they will not do well. With the massive change away from terrestrial TV , then to pay per view cable Liberty could have done well ten years ago. Now with the amalgamations taking place in that world I think they have missed the boat. They will get some online legacy earnings...but slowly with out mainstream coverage the races will die. Liberty have taken on the skilled and successful but these days sanctimonious Ross Braun as their 'racing advisor'. But between the overly green politics of Paris based motor sport regulating body the FIA, Braun and despite - or more likely 'because of' Liberty I think for Bernie: 'You retired at the right time.' For the fans I fear for a slow and sad death by regulation and Trump style TV hype. Thank you, thank you, Bernie for all the good years...and you deserve that 'never will be awarded knighthood' for creating all those jobs for 40 years.
January 30, 2021
A compelling story and decent access/research spoiled by wretched writing and basic factual errors.
Ultimately, Bernie Ecclestone is a reprehensible man. Learning how to swap, negotiate, pressure, and cheat in the school yard, he earns a fortune through questionable vehicle dealership and manages to take control of Formula One and make it a money machine. But rather than run it equitably or logically, he appears to revel in extracting every last ounce of profit for himself and screwing over as many adversaries as possible. Couple that with some "colourful" opinions about, you know, fascists, dismissive remarks about the value of human life (F1 drivers in particular) and a tendency to flat out lie about his actions and motivations. So the fact that Tom Bower chooses to tell most of the story from his perspective and give him the last word on numerous topics is jarring. Here's an example: after his second wife divorces him, he says he "never walked out on anything in my life", after callously abandoning his first wife and another long-term partner.
Bower's writing style is tabloid: dismissive, loose and prone to xenophobia ("fearful of a Frenchman's bureaucratic tendencies" (p352): Really? Jean Todt has led Ferrari to one of the most glorious periods in Formula 1, but don't make him head of the FIA, he's French, and they're all ...). Ballestre is the "pompous and greedy French president of FIA". Schumacher is "arrogant" and German in the same sentence. And, of course, all women are described by their attractiveness. In fact, I think every woman in this story who is younger than 50 when introduced is described as "attractive" or similar.
For the Formula 1 enthusiast, there is little to learn here that wasn't already public knowledge. Bower does not show a marked interest or understanding of the sport. The F-duct (p367), for example, is incorrectly described as being operated on the corners, simply for dramatic effect, when it is operated on the straight to stall the wing for higher top speed. As a fan, I would have liked to have heard more about the Brabham BT-46 fan car, the "cash-for-tyres" mystery (which I'd never heard of) and Schumacher's move to Benetton (covered in more detail in The Piranha Club).
I did learn some things in this book. I learned that Mosley and Ecclestone worked closely together to oust Ballestre (another unlikeable gentleman, the villain of the Senna era). Also how Ecclestone's control of motor racing broadcasting meant Formula 1 (his interest) was emphasized to the detriment of other racing (rally and trucks). Overall, this is a story of a master-juggler who used a set of amoral business tactics to maintain control with only a very flimsy legal basis. Formula 1 was basically a set of contracts, written by Bernie, agreed at the last moment, poorly understood by the other signatories, which rested in Bernie's private files. At many points, it feels like fraud, but ultimately, he gets away with it in a classic case of might over right.
Gripe log TLDR: bad writing
I made notes of most of the things which annoyed me in this book, so here they are.
"Grease mechanic": either it's mechanic or grease monkey, which is slang, but not grease mechanic. p44, p293 (both times in reference to Ron Dennis, talented designed and team boss)
"Champions league" p45. football has a champions league, F1 has a constructors championship. Don't muddle the two.
"Carlos Reutemann... World Champion." p63. Incorrect.
"'crossing to the dark side', a reference to the film Star Wars." p223 Gee, thanks
"[Ferrari spends $295 million dollars in 2003] The financial race was matched by Ferrari's principal rivals - Patrick Head at Williams and Adrian Newey at McLaren." p268 Neither of those mentioned are team principals, but rather designers, and Williams' budget and probably McLaren's was far less.
Brundle "had clearly failed to make a serious impression on the sport, but because most of his contemporaries were dead, he wielded authority... Naturally, he only secured the job with Ecclestone's approval... his fame... in Ecclestone's opinion, did not prove his qualifications to deliver the promises...". p252 Why such a diss for Martin?
Piquet Jr "risking a wheel coming off and hitting him on the head" Weren't there wheel tethers by then? He was risking a bunch of stuff. p340
"Overtaking a Toyota" p341, Timo Glock! You can't not mention that it was Timo Glock!
"To be certain of victory, the Spaniard (Alonso) would need to win the challenge not to back off at the curve" p367. Okay. Deep breath. Stay calm. It's not quite the worst sentence imaginable but... (A) leading into the first corner does not make you "certain of victory", it just makes it a bit more likely, (B) a curve is a gentle turn, the first chicane in Monza is not a curve. Bower just wants to use another word as he used "bend" in the last sentence but these are not synonyms and (C) "win the challenge not to back off" is just.... anyway.
We're told Ecclestone and Briatore nicknamed Lewis Hamilton, the only black driver on the grid, Jumbo. This is never explained and maybe it's better that I don't know.
"Hamilton scoring advantages in the qualifying sessions" p313. Said no Formula 1 fan ever. Yes, there are separate sessions, but there is one outcome, so it should be advantage, but every fan, and most readers would understand the much more direct "qualified ahead".
Ultimately, Bernie Ecclestone is a reprehensible man. Learning how to swap, negotiate, pressure, and cheat in the school yard, he earns a fortune through questionable vehicle dealership and manages to take control of Formula One and make it a money machine. But rather than run it equitably or logically, he appears to revel in extracting every last ounce of profit for himself and screwing over as many adversaries as possible. Couple that with some "colourful" opinions about, you know, fascists, dismissive remarks about the value of human life (F1 drivers in particular) and a tendency to flat out lie about his actions and motivations. So the fact that Tom Bower chooses to tell most of the story from his perspective and give him the last word on numerous topics is jarring. Here's an example: after his second wife divorces him, he says he "never walked out on anything in my life", after callously abandoning his first wife and another long-term partner.
Bower's writing style is tabloid: dismissive, loose and prone to xenophobia ("fearful of a Frenchman's bureaucratic tendencies" (p352): Really? Jean Todt has led Ferrari to one of the most glorious periods in Formula 1, but don't make him head of the FIA, he's French, and they're all ...). Ballestre is the "pompous and greedy French president of FIA". Schumacher is "arrogant" and German in the same sentence. And, of course, all women are described by their attractiveness. In fact, I think every woman in this story who is younger than 50 when introduced is described as "attractive" or similar.
For the Formula 1 enthusiast, there is little to learn here that wasn't already public knowledge. Bower does not show a marked interest or understanding of the sport. The F-duct (p367), for example, is incorrectly described as being operated on the corners, simply for dramatic effect, when it is operated on the straight to stall the wing for higher top speed. As a fan, I would have liked to have heard more about the Brabham BT-46 fan car, the "cash-for-tyres" mystery (which I'd never heard of) and Schumacher's move to Benetton (covered in more detail in The Piranha Club).
I did learn some things in this book. I learned that Mosley and Ecclestone worked closely together to oust Ballestre (another unlikeable gentleman, the villain of the Senna era). Also how Ecclestone's control of motor racing broadcasting meant Formula 1 (his interest) was emphasized to the detriment of other racing (rally and trucks). Overall, this is a story of a master-juggler who used a set of amoral business tactics to maintain control with only a very flimsy legal basis. Formula 1 was basically a set of contracts, written by Bernie, agreed at the last moment, poorly understood by the other signatories, which rested in Bernie's private files. At many points, it feels like fraud, but ultimately, he gets away with it in a classic case of might over right.
Gripe log TLDR: bad writing
I made notes of most of the things which annoyed me in this book, so here they are.
"Grease mechanic": either it's mechanic or grease monkey, which is slang, but not grease mechanic. p44, p293 (both times in reference to Ron Dennis, talented designed and team boss)
"Champions league" p45. football has a champions league, F1 has a constructors championship. Don't muddle the two.
"Carlos Reutemann... World Champion." p63. Incorrect.
"'crossing to the dark side', a reference to the film Star Wars." p223 Gee, thanks
"[Ferrari spends $295 million dollars in 2003] The financial race was matched by Ferrari's principal rivals - Patrick Head at Williams and Adrian Newey at McLaren." p268 Neither of those mentioned are team principals, but rather designers, and Williams' budget and probably McLaren's was far less.
Brundle "had clearly failed to make a serious impression on the sport, but because most of his contemporaries were dead, he wielded authority... Naturally, he only secured the job with Ecclestone's approval... his fame... in Ecclestone's opinion, did not prove his qualifications to deliver the promises...". p252 Why such a diss for Martin?
Piquet Jr "risking a wheel coming off and hitting him on the head" Weren't there wheel tethers by then? He was risking a bunch of stuff. p340
"Overtaking a Toyota" p341, Timo Glock! You can't not mention that it was Timo Glock!
"To be certain of victory, the Spaniard (Alonso) would need to win the challenge not to back off at the curve" p367. Okay. Deep breath. Stay calm. It's not quite the worst sentence imaginable but... (A) leading into the first corner does not make you "certain of victory", it just makes it a bit more likely, (B) a curve is a gentle turn, the first chicane in Monza is not a curve. Bower just wants to use another word as he used "bend" in the last sentence but these are not synonyms and (C) "win the challenge not to back off" is just.... anyway.
We're told Ecclestone and Briatore nicknamed Lewis Hamilton, the only black driver on the grid, Jumbo. This is never explained and maybe it's better that I don't know.
"Hamilton scoring advantages in the qualifying sessions" p313. Said no Formula 1 fan ever. Yes, there are separate sessions, but there is one outcome, so it should be advantage, but every fan, and most readers would understand the much more direct "qualified ahead".
February 9, 2017
This is a good book which throws real light on the murky details of formula one's finances.
And that is its Achilles heel. For Ecclestone to take personal control - and the massive profits - of such a massive sport is extraordinary. But I lost this sense of wonder as the book became mired in financial details and endless delayed deals to the point it was more fiscal than fascinating. The personalities of those involved are far more fascinating but explored less. If this was on the grid it would have started just off pole and finished seventh with engine trouble.
And that is its Achilles heel. For Ecclestone to take personal control - and the massive profits - of such a massive sport is extraordinary. But I lost this sense of wonder as the book became mired in financial details and endless delayed deals to the point it was more fiscal than fascinating. The personalities of those involved are far more fascinating but explored less. If this was on the grid it would have started just off pole and finished seventh with engine trouble.
April 12, 2018
Useful research for my upcoming book www.1994f1.com
It was a lesson in how to avoid my book being difficult to read. This is a poor book, with the sole aim of cashing in on Ecclestone's name. The author glosses over Ecclestone's involvement in controversial topics. For instance the whole politics and infighting within F1 in 93/94 is covered in about 2 pages.
The book is also very poorly worded and there is no paragraph breaks making it difficult on the eye. An example of how not to approach my upcoming book.
It was a lesson in how to avoid my book being difficult to read. This is a poor book, with the sole aim of cashing in on Ecclestone's name. The author glosses over Ecclestone's involvement in controversial topics. For instance the whole politics and infighting within F1 in 93/94 is covered in about 2 pages.
The book is also very poorly worded and there is no paragraph breaks making it difficult on the eye. An example of how not to approach my upcoming book.
June 2, 2021
Interesting read about the development and history of the F1 , and the man behind it. The reader gets an inside look of the life of Bernie Ecclestone, what motivates and drives him. With all his success and fortune , it does not seems like that he is a happy person and that his childhood has made him undeveloped and makes it hard for him to have health relationships with family, friends or colleagues. He always wants to Win and to have control of every situation. He can not see the nuances in life. It feels like you can learn and reflect from this book .
December 30, 2021
An interesting read!
You watch F1 on a Sunday and watch the cars and drivers only vaguely aware at the politics and turmoil behind the scenes.
This is a great read and you come away marvelling at Bernie Ecclestone's business acumen, drive to build F1 and raw ability to identify and execute deals.
Whilst his methods appear somewhat 'brutal' they certainly work and who wouldn't like to be involved in the glamour and excitement of F1?
On the whole very enjoyable and an eye opener.
Highly recommended
You watch F1 on a Sunday and watch the cars and drivers only vaguely aware at the politics and turmoil behind the scenes.
This is a great read and you come away marvelling at Bernie Ecclestone's business acumen, drive to build F1 and raw ability to identify and execute deals.
Whilst his methods appear somewhat 'brutal' they certainly work and who wouldn't like to be involved in the glamour and excitement of F1?
On the whole very enjoyable and an eye opener.
Highly recommended
December 28, 2019
Slow Off The Grid For Me
Whilst this is a well written and researched book which does not pull any punches, ultimately it was a slight at times to get through. I'm sure to an F1 enthusiast this would not be the case, but I find the sport uninteresting so had no special interest in the subject matter
Whilst this is a well written and researched book which does not pull any punches, ultimately it was a slight at times to get through. I'm sure to an F1 enthusiast this would not be the case, but I find the sport uninteresting so had no special interest in the subject matter
May 2, 2022
"'Lo que he hecho lo he hecho con honestidad y bien -declararía Bernie después de que Murray se hubiera quejado-. Nunca he hecho daño a nadie en mi vida, nunca le he hecho trampa a nadie. Si hago un trato con alguien no me hace falta escribirlo en ningún papel. Todo el mundo sabe que luego no me echaré atrás'."
September 23, 2023
What a fascinating book, especially for someone who is interested in Formula One.
However, the writing style of the author is utter rubbish, the book could have been shorter and much clearer without all the “...Bernie, Mosley commented, said ..”, “Luca, Bernie admitted, thought...”
It’s just confusing and annoying. Otherwise, a delightful book, highly recommend for F1 fans.
However, the writing style of the author is utter rubbish, the book could have been shorter and much clearer without all the “...Bernie, Mosley commented, said ..”, “Luca, Bernie admitted, thought...”
It’s just confusing and annoying. Otherwise, a delightful book, highly recommend for F1 fans.
November 14, 2020
First couple of chapters about his childhood and upbringing were interesting but the rest of the book was just deal after deal after deal after deal of Bernie screwing people over. Boring read. Nothing about his divorce or daughters really. Could have been a 50 page short story.
December 27, 2020
A really good view of the Formula 1 business world and how it evolved into a global phenomenon also how the people involved are dirty and rules don't apply, especially Bernie. It shows that the competition happens in and outside of the tracks.
February 4, 2025
Absolutely brilliant. I loved every second and just couldn't put it down. It was so very interesting. I definitely recommend reading this book if you want to know the ins and outs of what goes on behind the scenes of F1.
July 30, 2017
If you are fan of Formula-1 or heard name of Bernie Ecclestone you must read this book.
November 5, 2017
The secret life; what secrets are exposed in this 379 page slog...
November 7, 2020
в книге очень много описаний сделок Экклстоуна и совсем мало Формулы 1. если вы ждёте тут истории спорта, то мимо. к тому же есть неточности в некоторых технических терминах.
September 8, 2021
Captivating read for an F1 fan. Quite the cast of characters that made the sport into what it is today.
March 19, 2022
Fascinating read, so well written
September 25, 2022
What a fabulous read
Bernie Ecclestone was a gifted negotiator,sly,crafty,clever,a fantastic memory and always wanted to win.He made formula 1 and created employment for hundreds.
Bernie Ecclestone was a gifted negotiator,sly,crafty,clever,a fantastic memory and always wanted to win.He made formula 1 and created employment for hundreds.
January 3, 2024
Livro traz um "background" interessante e pouco conhecido. Mas a leitura não é agradável e por vezes se estende de mais em determinado assunto.
February 3, 2024
Too much about the details of all the business goings on. Gave up on it.
September 2, 2024
dnf @ 100. A fairly researched book which is plagued by monotonous writing and blurting out too much unnecessary information.
January 30, 2025
Superb book on the man behind today's Formula 1. Also a primer on how to succeed in business.
The part about Enzo giving him advice on...ah, "hotels"...is priceless!
The part about Enzo giving him advice on...ah, "hotels"...is priceless!
July 24, 2024
Quite good. Funny in places. Bernie has never cared what anyone thinks.
July 21, 2024
Very long and a bit hard read. It is the most comprehensive biography I’ve ever read. Almost every part of Bernies life is in this book, and the text stems from the authors interviews with Bernie and basically everyone he has ever interacted with.
While it is an incredible rags to riches story, Bernie really is a ****. This is not a feel good story, but rather a true look into what it takes to become a billionaire.
I’ve long been interested in the FIA v FICA wars and everything around it, so it was great to have it all layed out for me like this.
Overall, very in depth, but also very long. I would only recommend this book to the die hard formula 1 fans. 7.5/10
While it is an incredible rags to riches story, Bernie really is a ****. This is not a feel good story, but rather a true look into what it takes to become a billionaire.
I’ve long been interested in the FIA v FICA wars and everything around it, so it was great to have it all layed out for me like this.
Overall, very in depth, but also very long. I would only recommend this book to the die hard formula 1 fans. 7.5/10
June 9, 2012
В 2012 году "Альпина" сделала великое дело - перевела и издала на русском языке настоящий роман про Формулу-1 и ее главного кардинала Берни Экклстоуна.
Книгу "Формула-1. История главной автогонки мира и ее руководителя Берни Экклстоуна" я прочитал за пару недель и очень пожалел, что она закончилась.
Для любого болельщика "Формулы" книга воспринимается как обсуджение жизни близких знакомых - тут и биография самого Берни, и история взаимоотношений с Энцо Феррари, Роном Деннисом, Кеном Тиррелом, Лукой ди Монтедземоло, Михаэлем Шумахером, Максом Мосли, Жаном Тодтом и другими.
Читая книгу, ты проходишь от начала чемпионатов в 50е до сегодняшних дней, от смертельных аварий каждый год до эры безопасного автоспорта.
Но главное - ты проходишь через все те закрытые и теневые баталии о контрактах со спонсорами, гонщиками и автодромами, о которых всегда так много слухов и благодаря которым Берни богаче Британской Королевы.
Думаю, ни для кого не секрет, что Берни не ангел. Собственно так книга в оригинале и называется. Но прочтение помогает во много понять, какие роли и какие отношения сформировались за десятилетия в паддоке, кто управляет этим балом и откуда у автоспорта аудитория больше, чем у Олимпиады.
Я очень рекомендую прочитать эту книгу каждому болельщику "Формулы-1".
Надеюсь, что это не последняя книга на русском языке про мой любимый спорт, который я смотрю уже 18 лет своей жизни.
Официальная страница книги - http://www.alpina.ru/business-books/m...
Книгу "Формула-1. История главной автогонки мира и ее руководителя Берни Экклстоуна" я прочитал за пару недель и очень пожалел, что она закончилась.
Для любого болельщика "Формулы" книга воспринимается как обсуджение жизни близких знакомых - тут и биография самого Берни, и история взаимоотношений с Энцо Феррари, Роном Деннисом, Кеном Тиррелом, Лукой ди Монтедземоло, Михаэлем Шумахером, Максом Мосли, Жаном Тодтом и другими.
Читая книгу, ты проходишь от начала чемпионатов в 50е до сегодняшних дней, от смертельных аварий каждый год до эры безопасного автоспорта.
Но главное - ты проходишь через все те закрытые и теневые баталии о контрактах со спонсорами, гонщиками и автодромами, о которых всегда так много слухов и благодаря которым Берни богаче Британской Королевы.
Думаю, ни для кого не секрет, что Берни не ангел. Собственно так книга в оригинале и называется. Но прочтение помогает во много понять, какие роли и какие отношения сформировались за десятилетия в паддоке, кто управляет этим балом и откуда у автоспорта аудитория больше, чем у Олимпиады.
Я очень рекомендую прочитать эту книгу каждому болельщику "Формулы-1".
Надеюсь, что это не последняя книга на русском языке про мой любимый спорт, который я смотрю уже 18 лет своей жизни.
Официальная страница книги - http://www.alpina.ru/business-books/m...
January 31, 2013
I have no doubt that some of this book is completely true. The utterly fascinating story of a man whose feigned nonchalance verges on giving the impression of imbecility, yet who has accumulated a net worth of nearly £2 billion over the decades from his steering of Formula 1. His success can certainly be attributed, in part, to that equivocal nonchalance, but it also makes a biographer's task challenging. Just as the biography cites examples where Ecclestone either misled journalists, or at least failed to correct their mistakes, one is naturally left wondering how much of this book is itself accurate.
In its favour, it is well-seasoned with quotations from interviews with contemporaries and rivals, which encourages a balanced perspective. Ecclestone's diffidence is clear, but there is a sense that it is cultivated for self-preservation as much as for his approach to doing business. After reading the book, I found myself with a new-found respect. Ecclestone is clearly not averse to dealing hard, bruising egos along the way. This book clearly gave him the opportunity to score a few points against Ron Dennis in particular. However, it suggests that Bernie's motivations are far more about puncturing overinflated egos and winning the game, than they are about money itself.
It's not a lightweight read, but I'd recommend it to anyone interested in the background to the development of F1's spectacle, the challenges to its reputation, and an insight into how one man went about making a billion.
In its favour, it is well-seasoned with quotations from interviews with contemporaries and rivals, which encourages a balanced perspective. Ecclestone's diffidence is clear, but there is a sense that it is cultivated for self-preservation as much as for his approach to doing business. After reading the book, I found myself with a new-found respect. Ecclestone is clearly not averse to dealing hard, bruising egos along the way. This book clearly gave him the opportunity to score a few points against Ron Dennis in particular. However, it suggests that Bernie's motivations are far more about puncturing overinflated egos and winning the game, than they are about money itself.
It's not a lightweight read, but I'd recommend it to anyone interested in the background to the development of F1's spectacle, the challenges to its reputation, and an insight into how one man went about making a billion.
May 21, 2017
This book is the most detailed writing on Bernie that I have come across. It has been rightly said that the only thing constant in F1 during the past half a century has been Bernie Ecclestone. This guy although being partially blind has the knack to find the blind spot of his opponent and have an edge in every negotiation.
Tom Bower very meticulously tells Bernie's tale from being a car dealer to a car driver to a team owner to a person who very smartly paves his way towards being the supreme dictator of F1. Tom also describes Bernie's personal life in which it is shown that the only person who was able to suppress him was his 6 feet long second wife. In his entire career he hardly had affection for anyone and used everyone as per his needs but his relation with Slavica was kind of hard to understand. At the time of divorce also he admitted that he never gave up on her.
Bower also takes you through all the shady stuff that goes behind the glitz and glam of the paddocks. How the teams twist the FIA rules as per their convenience, how the management lobbies the government and how deals for the circuits which host the race are made.
I would also like to have an afterword of this book which covers the details of the current deal in which the F1 is being sold to Liberty Media. It would be fascinating to know how Ecclestone played this stroke.
Tom Bower very meticulously tells Bernie's tale from being a car dealer to a car driver to a team owner to a person who very smartly paves his way towards being the supreme dictator of F1. Tom also describes Bernie's personal life in which it is shown that the only person who was able to suppress him was his 6 feet long second wife. In his entire career he hardly had affection for anyone and used everyone as per his needs but his relation with Slavica was kind of hard to understand. At the time of divorce also he admitted that he never gave up on her.
Bower also takes you through all the shady stuff that goes behind the glitz and glam of the paddocks. How the teams twist the FIA rules as per their convenience, how the management lobbies the government and how deals for the circuits which host the race are made.
I would also like to have an afterword of this book which covers the details of the current deal in which the F1 is being sold to Liberty Media. It would be fascinating to know how Ecclestone played this stroke.
July 12, 2011
Bernie Ecclestone - the little grey bloke you see being interviewed by Martin Brundle before each grand prix. But there's much more to Bernie than you see in those 30-second clips. Not for nothing is this subtitled 'The Secret Life...'
This is the story of how Ecclestone started out as an Arthur Daley-style used car dealer in South London and became one of the richest men in the world. Along the way he took Formula One from being a badly organised sport to a multi-billion pound global business. Mainly, it seems, thanks to a sharp eye for a deal and a reluctance to put anything on paper.
He's left behind a string of people who seem a little puzzled as to how Bernie came to own 'their' sport. It can be heavy going at times when it gets into the financial complexities of the business. But it's completely riveting in the details of how Ecclestone always seems to manage to get his own way - except with his third wife - and his contempt for people who cross him.
This is the story of how Ecclestone started out as an Arthur Daley-style used car dealer in South London and became one of the richest men in the world. Along the way he took Formula One from being a badly organised sport to a multi-billion pound global business. Mainly, it seems, thanks to a sharp eye for a deal and a reluctance to put anything on paper.
He's left behind a string of people who seem a little puzzled as to how Bernie came to own 'their' sport. It can be heavy going at times when it gets into the financial complexities of the business. But it's completely riveting in the details of how Ecclestone always seems to manage to get his own way - except with his third wife - and his contempt for people who cross him.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews