Former Formula 1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone has unleashed a scathing critique against the sport’s current owners, Liberty Media, accusing them of failing to bring the historic German Grand Prix back to the calendar. Despite Formula 1’s deep roots in Germany, with iconic tracks like the Nurburgring and Hockenheimring, the race has been conspicuously absent since the 2019 season—a hiatus Ecclestone argues is unacceptable.
Germany has long been a cornerstone of the F1 calendar, with its circuits hosting countless thrilling battles. The Nurburgring, with its legendary Nordschleife layout, and Hockenheimring are revered among fans and drivers alike. Yet, financial disputes and logistical hurdles have kept the race off the schedule, even before the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the situation. In 2015 and 2017, the German GP was already struggling due to disagreements over funding between race organizers and Formula 1 management.
Ecclestone, who helmed the sport for decades, expressed his disappointment in an interview, lamenting that Germany—a nation that once provided Formula 1 with immense support and some of its most iconic drivers—no longer hosts a race. “It is disappointing that Formula 1 has fallen asleep in Germany. In my time, the greatest support for me probably came from Germany. Now, there no longer seems to be the financial willingness to do what is necessary to bring Formula 1 back,” he remarked.
The former F1 boss pointed fingers at Liberty Media for their lack of commitment to reviving the German Grand Prix, criticizing them for failing to provide the financial resources needed to secure the event’s return. Ecclestone highlighted the potential for major German automakers, such as Porsche and Audi, to reignite interest and investment, possibly paving the way for the event’s revival.
Formula 1’s current CEO echoed Ecclestone’s sentiments, admitting that the German GP’s absence is largely due to the lack of financial support from sponsors and teams. Currently, Mercedes remains the only German manufacturer on the grid, but its operations are based in the UK, making its commitment to funding a German race less likely. Ecclestone suggested that Mercedes should consider stepping up to help host the event but acknowledged the complexities involved. “I would have thought that Mercedes would perhaps help a little more to ensure that there is a German GP again. But I suspect that it is difficult for them to make such decisions,” he stated.
With Audi’s confirmed entry into Formula 1 in 2026 and rumors of other German brands potentially joining, there is a glimmer of hope that the German Grand Prix might make a comeback. However, fans hoping for an earlier return will be disappointed; the race calendar for the 2025 season has already been finalized, with no German GP included.
As the 2025 season features 24 races—matching the current schedule—Germany’s absence remains a sore point for fans and purists alike. With only six races left in the current season, the clock is ticking for any developments that could restore this iconic event. Until then, the legacy of the German Grand Prix remains in limbo, and Ecclestone’s frustrations serve as a reminder of the sport’s lost opportunities.
