When Formula 1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone was attacked in West London on November 25th, the 80-year-old and his Brazilian mistress Fabiana Flosi became the latest victims of a crime wave in the area.
On this occasion, the group of four stole jewellery from the pair (reportedly worth around £200,000) and proceeded to punch and kick Ecclestone in the head a number of times. Ecclestone briefly fell into unconsciousness, while Flosi was left shaken by the incident.
The value of what was stolen means little – Bernie can well afford the financial damage; however it is sad that many feel the need to count the cost of the attack in terms of dollars and sterling, rather than the tissue and emotional damage.
I have come across several people make some shocking remarks about the incident and its victims in the time since – shame on them.
However in the time since, Bernie has proved himself to be made of stronger stuff than most. Despite his injuries, Ecclestone returned to work the following morning and today unveiled himself as the star of watchmaker, Hublot’s latest marketing campaign. Showing the former Brabham owner to be heavily bruised and cut, the poster proudly exclaiming “…see what people will do for a Hublot.”
The campaign is set to live this week with adverts running in the Financial Times and several other publications.
Somehow I doubt many of my age group (late 20’s) would be so willing to get back into the swing of life after such an experience. If anything, it is a brilliant two-fingers up to the lowest of society and a sign that maybe Ecclestone is made of sterner stuff than most.
This is really impressive. Whatever quarrels I may have with some of the stuff Bernie has, his determination, attitude and humour during this incident are inspirational. Well done, Bernie 🙂