Budapest, Aug 23: A delegation of government and race organisers hope to save the Canadian Grand Prix today, even though they rate their chances at five per cent. The group led by Canadian Justice Minister Martin Cauchon and race organiser Normand Legault was to meet with Bernie Ecclestone, the billionaire who runs formula one. Montreal Mayor Gerald Tremblay is also part of the delegation.
The Montreal race was dropped from the calendar next year, reportedly because of the country's tough tobacco advertising laws.
"The race is vital for us, for our entire region, and we are still confident to retain or at least regain a spot," Legault said yesterday.
"It's probably just a five per cent chance, but definitely one worth pursuing. It will be tough to get an 18th race as not only Bernie, but also the teams have to agree," he added. Persuading Ecclestone to reconsider will be difficult. Half the teams in F1 have tobacco sponsorship on their cars.
The Canadian government had granted formula one a 7-year grace period for tobacco sponsorship, which expires October 31.
"The law is the law and we have already benefited from that grace period. We have of course approached our government for negotiations on another exception," Legault said.
Various team owners have given the Canadian delegation backing. "One of the best races and certainly an important market lost. We are not happy," Toyota team boss said. Ecclestone has given the 2004 race date to the US Grand Prix in Indianapolis. Bureau Report