In an exclusive interview with CNN, Formula One’s controversial boss Bernie Ecclestone gave a big thumbs up to Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin for his government’s stance on gay rights.

In the rare case that you haven’t read or heard about it, the Russian government recently passed an anti-gay legislation that includes prohibiting “gay” propaganda to minors, banning adoption of Russian children by lesbian and gay individuals and outlawing gay pride events.

Ecclestone told the news station that he “completely agrees” with Putin’s policy towards homosexuals.

“He hasn’t said he doesn’t agree (with homosexuality) just that he doesn’t want these things publicized to an audience under the age of 18,” said the 84-year old F1 chief. “I completely agree with those sentiments and if you took a world census you’d find 90% of the world agree with it as well.”

Ecclestone, who last met up with Putin in February of 2013 when he visited Sochi to check out the construction progress of the new F1 track, says he is a big admirer of the Russian president.

“I’ve great admiration for him and his courage to say what he says,” he said. “It may upset a few people but that’s how the world is. It’s how he sees (the world) and I think he’s completely right”.

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Bernie Ecclestone