Judge rejects request to exempt Grand Prix from tobacco law

MONTREAL Sep. 30, 2003; The AP reported that a judge rejected a request Tuesday by two businessmen who wanted the Canadian Grand Prix exempted from federal anti-tobacco legislation.

Superior Court Justice Jean Crepeau refused to consider arguments the sponsorship ban would hurt the city's economy by depriving it of millions spent during the Formula One event.

The race was not renewed on the Formula One schedule for next year because of legislation prohibiting the use of tobacco logos at sporting and cultural events. About half the F1 teams are financed by tobacco companies.

Businessman Pierre Dicaire and consultant Daniel Robin had argued the federal tobacco ban, and a similar Quebec law, violated the right of race organizers to exercise their freedom of expression under the Charter of Rights.

In a 20-page written ruling, Crepeau said the request appeared to be a "cry of despair" that was beyond the court's jurisdiction.

Dicaire, a Montreal-area racing promoter, said Tuesday he may appeal the ruling.

Ottawa has repeatedly refused to relax its anti-tobacco law to save the race, which brings in an estimated $80 million to Montreal.