Bernard Ecclestone is Formula One's CEO (F1). Bernard is not everyone's favorite. When you have the power that he has, you're not going to have a lot of friends.

A trawlerman's son, the former motorcycle and parts salesman has done well for himself, growing up with essentially nothing and becoming a billionaire and maybe the most powerful man in motorsports.

Bernard has had some health issues in the past but stated early this year: "I'm working till I drop." He may have more than health issues to be concerned about.

Rumors have surfaced in the past regarding shady dealings in and around Bernard. Now, another report from two German newspapers have come out stating Bernard Ecclestone paid a $50 million bribe regarding the sale of F1's commercial rights five years ago. This story first popped up at the beginning of the year.

Earlier this month, a German banker (Gerhard Gribkowsky) - who was formerly the head of the F1 holding company - was arrested on suspicion of corruption, tax fraud, bribery and breach of trust after "two consultancy contracts totaling $50 million" appeared in two of his accounts in Austria. At this point, according to German law, a tribunal will now decide whether he will stand trial. Gribkowsky could face up to 10 years in jail.

The newspapers, Stern and Suddeutsche Zeitung, refer to 'concrete evidence' to corroborate the claims that Bernie bribed the bank.

CVC Capital Partners - who owns majority interest in F1 - is detaching themselves from the allegations saying: "CVC confirms that it has no knowledge of, nor any involvement in any payment to Mr. Gribkowsky or anyone connected with him in relation to CVC's acquisition of F1."

Bernard, who continues to deny any involvement, says the prosecutors and newspapers have it all wrong concerning the accusations stating: "It's absolute nonsense; I don't even know why I would have given him money."

So is Bernard in trouble? That's a good question. The German prosecutors say that Bernard remains under investigation. But it remains to be seen and I'm not sure if he'll actually be involved in the legal proceedings; therefore, it would seem that Bernard could dodge another bullet.

Bernard didn't become as powerful as he has without knowing more than most. When the proverbial s*** hits the fan, he always comes out smelling like a rose.

There's been talk of CVC looking into the possibilities of selling F1 and controversies like this may hasten the process.

Maybe Bernard will call it quits and take the money and run … figuratively, if not literally. On the other hand, Bernard said a week or so ago that if the price was right, he might buy back F1.Yes, he really said it. All of this still makes you wonder.