Belgian Politicians Attempt to Save Spa Race

In a last-gasp rescue attempt, two Belgian senators said they planned to introduce a bill to the upper house of parliament this week aimed at postponing the date when the country's anti-tobacco law comes into effect in order to get the Belgian Grand Prix back in the Formula One calendar.

Their original bid to protect Belgium's Grand Prix failed in July when Green and Christian Democrat senators rejected a bill that would have lifted the ban on cigarette advertising for Spa's annual race.

The axing of the Spa race in a row over tobacco was confirmed today, but the race might be re-introduced in 2004.

"The aim (of the bill) is simply to postpone the application of the law until September 30, 2003," French-speaking Liberal Senator Philippe Monfils said in a statement, citing the economic benefits of the race for the Spa region.

"If this bill was approved, next year's grand prix would be saved, giving us the time to examine a definitive solution," Monfils said.

Five Formula One teams including World Champions Ferrari have tobacco sponsorship. Spa has hosted 36 Belgian Grands Prix. FIA president Max Mosley said the race could be re-introduced in 2004 if Belgium introduced an exemption from legislation.

Formula One has agreed to phase out all sponsorship by tobacco companies in 2006 in line with a global embargo favoured by the World Health Organisation. Belgium has not followed the example of several European countries which have offered a special dispensation from domestic legislation limiting tobacco advertising to motor racing until 2006.

"Other countries adapted and Belgium did not," said Jaguar boss Niki Lauda said. "Some countries allow tobacco and this is the problem (for Belgium). The decision was that we need tobacco because in the world economy today we need to keep every sponsor and not frighten them away.

"It's very important to have advertising on cars - this is the principle of Formula One, you need any sponsor."