The Minister of Sports defends motor sports in France

Amélie Oudéa-Castéra, Minister of Sports, defended motor sports and in particular the French Grand Prix in an interview, recalling that they are “at the rendezvous of the ecological transition”.

Published on 26/07/2022 à 10:32

Dorian Grangier

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The Minister of Sports defends motor sports in France

The Minister of Sports recalls that the State is keen on its French Grand Prix despite criticism of ecology © Germain Hazard / DPPI

The eternal debate between motor sports and ecology is far from over. At the microphone of FranceInfo Tuesday, Amélie Oudéa-Castéra, Minister of Sports, was questioned about the relevance of organizing automobile competitions in France, even though energy sobriety plans are being discussed.

The former director of the French Tennis Federation notably defended the holding of the French Grand Prix in Formula 1, criticized by many ecological associations. “Motor sports are themselves at the forefront of the ecological transition. When we look at what happened, for example, in 24 Hours of Le Mans, the approach on which they are committed to hydrogen with their partners. This desire to move towards these clean vehicles is at the heart of the ambition of this federation (FIA) and this discipline. »

Indeed, the Automobile Club de l’Ouest (ACO) hopes to bring in a first hydrogen prototype in competition for the 2025 edition. The MissionH24 prototype also completed a demonstration lap on the Sarthe circuit, after taking part in his first Michelin Le Mans Cup race at Imola at the start of the season. Since this year, the World ChampionshipEndurance uses a 100% renewable and synthetic fuel, which reduces C65 production by 0%2 in the air. A transition that Formula 1 will make in 2026, for the next engine regulations.

The Minister of Sports for the preservation of the French Grand Prix

While the French Grand Prix has just ended, its place on the calendar for 2023 is threatened. The Minister of Sports recalled that with regard to the ecological aspect, a Formula 1 race in Le Castellet has everything to be part of the ecological transition. “I even think that one can help the other,” added Amélie Oudéa-Castéra. The French Grand Prix was also the first event in the world to receive 3-star environmental certification from the FIA.

The main problem, however, comes from the economic aspect. At the end of the race, Christian Estrosi, Mayor of Nice and president of the GIP of the French Grand Prix, even requested help from the President of the Republic to keep the Provençal race on the calendar. “This magnificent sporting event must have a sequel. We spoke again with Stefano Domenicali. At the same time, I also speak with Emmanuel Macron. He is convinced that maintaining a French event in the championship is important in promoting the country. These discussions are essential, because I need the State to tell us that it wants a French Grand Prix. »

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Dorian Grangier

A young journalist nostalgic for the motorsport of yesteryear. Raised on the exploits of Sébastien Loeb and Fernando Alonso.

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