Bernie Ecclestone admitted he was surprised by the reaction after announcing he and his wife Fabiana are expecting a baby this summer.
The 89-year-old former Formula 1 boss revealed the news via friend and veteran journalist Roger Benoit at Swiss publication Blick on Thursday that not only would he be having his fourth child, but this would be his first son after three daughters.
Of course, given his advanced years, the public response was sceptical with some even calling it a late April Fools joke, but Ecclestone brushed the comments to one side.
“There’s nothing that unusual is there? I haven’t had a job for a little while so I have had plenty of time to practice!’ he told The Daily Mail.
“She [Fabiana] is thrilled. We’re not sure what all the fuss is about! I’m very happy and happy really for my wife, she’s been looking forward to this happening for quite a few years so I’m happy she’ll have someone after I’m gone.
“It’s fun, I don’t see any dramas, I’ve got grandchildren and I’m looking forward to having another baby.”
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Some of the facts are a little bizarre notably that the baby’s three sisters, Petra, Tamara and Deborah, are 31, 35 and 65 years old respectively.
Also, Ecclestone will be welcoming the new addition while already having five grandchildren and one great-grandson.
“Hopefully he’ll learn to play backgammon soon!” Bernie added. “Like all parents, we have only one wish: the child must be born healthy.
“Hopefully he will never express any interest in doing something in Formula 1!”
The Ecclestone’s are currently self-isolating from the ongoing coronavirus pandemic at their farm in Brazil.