The trial of Formula One boss Bernie Ecclestone on bribery charges began in Munich on Thursday, in a case that could threaten the 83-year-old's grip on the sport.

The F1 Supremo is accused of bribery and incitement to breach of trust, and could face up to 10 years in prison if convicted. The charges involve a 45 million US dollar payment to banker Gerhard Gribkowsky, who's serving an eight-year sentence for taking the money.

Prosecutors allege the payment was meant to facilitate the sale of a German bank's stake in Formula One to a buyer of Ecclestone's liking so Ecclestone would remain in charge of Formula 1 and in control of the circuit's broadcast contracts, sponsorship agreements and commercial rights.

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