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Jackie Stewart refuses to give up £4m RBS deal
Danny Brierley24 Feb 2009
SIR Jackie Stewart has refused to give up a £4million corporate deal with the Royal Bank of Scotland, which is facing laying off thousands of staff.
The former Formula One world champion insists his arrangement with the struggling bank that was loaned £20 billion of public money should stand.
His stance contrasts with that of fellow Scot and British tennis player, Andy Murray, who is willing to renegotiate his sponsorhip deal.
Sir Jackie, 69, said: "I am sorry these people are losing their jobs but I signed a contract and have done my bit. I have two years more to run. I work all over the world for them. I am out there, creating business."
World number four Murray said: "RBS has supported me since I was 13 and I have a great relationship with them. Now I want to help them."
An RBS source said: "We're in a very different financial world from before. Some people get that, others clearly don't."
The bank denies Sir Jackie's deal is worth £4 million but refuses to say what he is paid.
Reader views (8)
The difference between Murray and Stewart is that Murray is on the way up and even now will have his pick of sponsors. Meanwhile, good luck to JS - he's a total professional, and I bet the bank would not let him off if he was a bit pushed for funds.
- Paul, London, 24/02/2009 16:56
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Alex, you read me wrong, any decision would come from Stewart. Andy Murray seems to know what is required but then he is never seen in such tight tartan trews as our friend Jackie. Perhaps the news that the RBS private jet is up for sale might forestall future globetrotting
- Jack Spratt, Richmond, England, 24/02/2009 15:10
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He must feel at home with the bankers they are also a creedy bunch.
- Mike Melbourne, Bedford England, 24/02/2009 14:44
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Jackie Stewart got what he negotiated and he's quite right to say he kept his side of the bargain. Mark and Jack, did your parents not teach you the importance of keeping your word and doing what you say you will do - even when it suits you better to break a promise (such as you are advocating RBS do)?
- Alex, Belfast, 24/02/2009 13:33
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The contract should be terminated with immediate effect.
- Mark, London, UK, 24/02/2009 12:29
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Odd to think that Stewart thought Max Mosely should resign when Max was not legally obliged to. I agreed with Stewart then but I also think he could relinquish his remaining 2 years with RBS.
- Jack Spratt, Richmond, England, 24/02/2009 11:53
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Why would you pay £4m to Mr Stewart. Is he worth £4m - who negotiated these deals?
You could understand Murray but Stewart!
- Harry, London, 24/02/2009 11:37
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If RBS could benefit one atom from dumping Mr Stewart or Mr Murray, they would not hesitate. Loyalty is a false flag - it only works one way.
- Neil M., london uk,, 24/02/2009 10:53
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