Judges at the Supreme Court in Monaco have thrown out a case brought by an environmental protection group, hoping to ban the annual Formula One event on the basis that it constitutes an “illegal street race”.
Those acting on behalf of the FIA successfully argued that, in to order to qualify as a race, entrants would need to have participated in the ‘action of overtaking another vehicle’ as stipulated by the World Racing Authority and, as far as any reasonable spectator would testify, no such activity had taken place in recent years.
Defense attorneys successfully classified the event as a ‘Motor Vehicle Procession’ (MVP) and, as such, it falls under the less strict regulations governing street carnivals, police escorts and mild traffic congestion.
“We’re delighted with the ruling” said FIA lawyer Jerry Tailgate. “Sponsors of this incredible event were extremely anxious in the weeks leading up to the ruling” he explained. “Many of these guys have booked restaurant tables. It would have been a disaster”
Jean Hobbiless, for the Environmental group ‘Foul Emissions’ reacted; “It’s another nail in the coffin in our action against such barbarians” she said. “We appreciate the technicality that Jerry and his team have pursued but we’re livid at the decision”.
Nobody at the FIA was available for comment, due to prior social engagements.
