FILE - In this Nov. 14, 2013 file picture President and CEO of Formula One Management Bernie Ecclestone arrives at the Circuit of the Americas for the Formula One U.S. Grand Prix auto race, in Austin, Texas. Ecclestone goes on trial in Munich on Thursday, April 24, 2014, on bribery charges that could put him in prison for up to 10 years if convicted. The trial could spell the end of the 83-year-old Ecclestone’s career in the racing series that has become a lucrative business under his guidance. (AP Photo/Darron Cummings, File)
April 24, 2014 - 1:00 AM
MUNICH - The trial of Formula One boss Bernie Ecclestone on bribery charges has begun, in a case that could threaten the 83-year-old's grip on the sport.
Ecclestone talked with his lawyers and smiled as he took his place Thursday at the Munich state court.
He's accused of bribery and incitement to breach of trust, and could face up to 10 years in prison if convicted. The charges involve a $44 million payment to banker Gerhard Gribkowsky, who's serving an 8- 1/2 year sentence for taking the money.
Prosecutors allege the payment was meant to facilitate the sale of German bank Bayern LB's stake in Formula One to a buyer of Ecclestone's liking. Ecclestone has denied wrongdoing and said he was "shaken down."
News from © The Associated Press, 2014