Formula Once Upon A Time

EJ joins Norman Howell and Roberto Boccafogli to recount how Michael Schumacher lied to him and tells how much he really got paid. Eddie says there's "nothing more pleasant than making Briatore pay" and says that Bernie was the master, saving him from bankruptcy. Hear why David Coulthard is a nightmare and why no Italian has won an F1 World Championship in decades. Who is the greatest of all time, Senna? Prost? Hamilton? Can you imagine James Hunt working with Toto Wolff? Where are the Silver Arrows going next? And who is going to be the saviour of F1? As always EJ pulls no punches!

Just before his 90th birthday Bernie Ecclestone, the F1 mastermind, had a chat with his former employee Norman Howell. In his own understated way Bernie explains how he transformed the sport into a worldwide phenomenon and how the takeover by Liberty ended in disappointment. He also has some ideas for what Lewis Hamilton should do next saying he's now actually bigger than F1. Bernie's hand shake seals the deal but he's always warned people that it can be a licence to lose money. Regrets, he's not had many but does think he should have supported Max Moseley more. He talks about Enzo Ferrari and the special relationship between the Scuderia and F1. Bernie has some invaluable tips for Backgammon players too!

Piero Ferrari, son of Enzo Ferrari, speaks his mind about the ups and downs of the Scuderia, as its celebrate 1000 races in Formula 1. How important is F1 to Ferrari? You'll be surprised by what he says. Piero also contrasts the drivers of today in their hi-tech machines with the stars of yesteryear, the men who drove by the seat of their pants. Piero also reveals that he was the interpreter each time his father and Bernie Ecclestone met to shape the future of the sport.  

Bernie contracted his people on a handshake - his handshake was better than a contract. But not everyone's handshake was the gentleman's agreement that was expected. This is the story of some F1 handshakes that meant nothing in reality and led to major engine manufacturers joining or not joining the Formula 1 paddock. Norman Howell and Roberto Boccafogli are joined by former Ron Dennis and McLaren man, Bob McMurray. Hear how Lamborghini almost became an F1 engine supplier and Peugot got in and then out of the circus.

Who pays who and how much do they all get? Whilst Lewis Hamilton is reputed to have been offered £40m by Mercedes, some drivers actually pay the team for their seat. Where does that money come from? Daddy? A Government Department? A rich multi-national? Norman Howell and Roberto Boccafogli follow the money trail in Formula 1 and they're joined by Ian Phillips who reveals what money changed hands at Jordan and what Ron Dennis agreed to pay EJ. Plus how much were Jordan/Benetton paid to run Schumacher? And you can't talk money without Bernie Ecclestone and Flavio Briatore. What's the cost of a Formula 1 title sponsorship? Money Money Money - it's a rich man's world is Formula 1.

The second part of our Niki Lauda tribute - taking us back to the golden era of F1. Maurice Hamilton joins Norman Howell and Roberto Boccafogli and takes us through all the things he learned about Lauda when he was writing his book - Niki Lauda - The Biography. Hear about the big accident and the incredible comeback that inspired the film "Rush". But also learn about the driver that only the paddock people knew and the man that took on the Boeing Corporation and won. Niki Lauda's life as a racing driver, businessman and later F1 team leader was remarkable. How did he get Lewis Hamilton to sign for Mercedes? Tweet us your thoughts about Lauda - @formulaoncepod

Niki Lauda, a true Formula 1 legend; Daniel Audetto was team manager at Ferrari during Niki's time with the Scuderia. They were close, Daniel went to the hospital with Niki after his life changing accident. Norman Howell and Roberto Boccafogli talk to Daniel about Niki the racer but also about Lauda the man. Tweet us @formulaoncepod This is the first of two podcasts about Niki Lauda. Don't miss Maurice Hamilton talking about Niki in Lauda "You're gonna have to shoot me down".

Ayrton Senna mastered Monaco and so did the Hill family, Graham and his son Damon. Damon joins us to discuss this remarkable place and the special relationship drivers had with the track. Jean Alesi gives us the driver's eye view, literally and F1 veteran Joe Ramirez who worked closely with Ayrton Senna takes us behind the scenes for a fantastic insight into the man who many regard as the greatest F1 driver ever.