Bernie Ecclestone: Jordan was a real racer

      Former Formula 1 boss Bernie Ecclestone paid tribute to Eddie Jordan in an interview with RacingNews365 after the news of his death at the age of 76...

      Bernie Ecclestone: "Eddie was a special person. He was always smiling and joking. I've never heard him complain sincerely about anything, and if he did, it wasn't too serious, making a joke of it.

      Jordan was a real racer. In today's Formula 1, I do not know anyone who could compare with him. He's the kind of guy who can get out of any kind of trouble.

      As a team leader, he always found a sponsor who allowed his team to continue performing. He was a fighter. He was always coming up with something to solve the problem.

      I remember one night we fought with him for Schumacher. Briatore and I took Michael to Benetton, so Flavio had to get rid of Roberto Moreno, who was playing for him. We stayed up all night trying to set everything up. I've discussed this with both Jordan and Briatore. Eddie didn't want to lose Schumacher. If he had found the money at that moment, everything could have been different, but I convinced him that it would be better for the rider.

      I told him that if Michael stays, he doesn't have the future that Flavio will provide for him. He understood, but he was still unhappy."