Ecclestone vows to 'never' retire

Nov.15 (GMM) F1 chief executive Bernie Ecclestone insists he has no plans to retire -- ever.

The 78-year-old billionaire, who shaped the modern commercial success of the sport and today remains in charge and a shareholder, told Gulf News he will keep working indefinitely.

"Never, never, never," he told the newspaper, when asked when he will hand over control to a successor. "The first day I won't be going into work is the day they will be lowering me into my grave.

"And that won't be for a long time to come," he promised.

Ecclestone had triple coronary bypass surgery nine years ago, but he said in late 2008 he feels "as fit as a fiddle".

He also predicts a healthy future for his sport and the annual calendar, despite the recent loss of the traditional Canadian and French grands prix.

Bernie insists there are plenty of alternatives clamouring to join the exclusive circus.

"If you could see the list of requests I have in my office you'd hardly believe it. It is mind-boggling," he said.