Ecclestone tips Hamilton to beat Rosberg for 2016 title

Formula 1 chief Bernie Ecclestone was a high profile presence in the Baku Street Circuit paddock, providing a quote a minute ahead of the sport's newest grand prix, predicting that Lewis Hamilton will win the 2016 F1 world championship.

Championship leader Nico Rosberg has seen his lead whittled down, by Mercedes teammate and main rival Hamilton, from 43 points to nine in just three races

Speaking to reporters in Baku about the title race, Ecclestone said, "I think Hamilton will win the championship."

And added, "Ferrari have been a little bit unlucky. A couple of races they could and should have won. So we'll see, a long way to go."

Ecclestone was critical of sport earlier this year, claiming he would not buy tickets to watch a grand prix.

When quizzed about his current view, he said, "It's getting better isn't it? We've got some racing."