Ecclestone hopes for closer championship

Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone can control many things when it comes to Formula One, but thankfully the result of a championship isn't something he can control.

The unpredictability of Formula One is one of its attractions, even when one team dominates a season which often happens in this sport.

The excitement of an unexpected run of results such as Brawn Grand Prix's early form in 2009 which led to Jenson Button taking the title or the sheer dominance of Sebastian Vettel in 2011 brings its own element of excitement.

Then of course everyone hopes the other teams and drivers can catch-up and beat the runaway leader and the cycle continues.

So heading into 2012 what does Bernie think will happen? Will Red Bull runaway with a third successive title? 'I hope not but they are up there, I would much prefer a World title fight that ran until the end of the season.' Bernie told Salzburger Nachrichten as quoted by Sky Sports.

But while he would prefer a championship to go down to the final race of the year every year, he believes competitive races every week are more important to the spectators and he believes that Mercedes, McLaren and Ferrari have what it takes to challenge Red Bull in 2012.

'the TV viewers care more about the tension in the race than the state of the Championship.'

'I would be surprised if Mercedes do not win a race this year. At McLaren, Button has been the surprise, he stood out against Hamilton.

'At Ferrari, I can only hope for a significant improvement. Alonso is super talented, he should be in a perfect car.'