Ecclestone claims Irvine is the star

(12-Jul-98) - Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone has told Eddie Irvine's
critics to revise their opinions about the Ulsterman after his best season
so far in Formula One.

Ecclestone said, "If there was a trophy for Formula One Driver of the
Year I'd award it to Irvine. He'd be my clear winner."

"I've changed my mind about him completely. I think he's doing a
fantastic job. I had strong opinions about him initially and I admit I
never thought he'd turn out to be the guy with the talent he has."

"You couldn't ask for a man who is more loyal to both Ferrari and his
team-mate Schumacher. He openly says that his partner is the No. 1 in the
world and by far the best driver there is."

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