Zoom Mystery surrounding the removal of the Canadian GP

In a surprising statement issued by the organisers of the Canadian Grand Prix, it was revealed that no news of plans to axe North America's single Formula One event had reached them prior to its announcement.

The Canadian GP was removed from the 2009 calendar by the FIA's World Motor Sport Council earlier today, with no explanations given.

"The organisers of the Canadian Grand Prix have learned through the media of the Canadian Grand Prix's removal from the 2009 Formula One championship calendar," the two-paragraph French-language statement reads.

"Consequently, no comments will be issued before speaking with the interested parties, Formula One Management (FOM) and the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA)."

The news hit Montreal like a storm, provoking strong reactions among fans towards the FIA, which is accused of showing disrespect towards the long-standing event. The race has taken place on the famous circuit Gilles-Villeneuve every year since 1987.

In an interview with Radio-Canada, Montreal Mayor Gérald Tremblay spoke of an important loss of 75 million dollars for the local economy, adding that he was going to contact Canadian GP promoter Normand Legault to "see what we can do."

In 2006, Legault stated that an agreement maintaining the Canadian round of the championship until 2011 had been reached with Bernie Ecclestone.

Daniel BASTIEN
© CAPSIS International