France wants F1 to ’carbon-offset’ GP emissions

Efforts to revive the French grand prix might receive the support of the government if F1 does more to bolster its environmental credentials.

Most F1 cars next year will be fitted with energy-recovery KERS systems, and the governing FIA has now green-lighted a new energy-efficient small engine formula for 2013.

France’s new sports minister Chantal Jouanno last year actively opposed the project for a grand prix at Flins.

Asked what can be done to revive the country’s F1 race, she told the L’Equipe sports daily: "We need to know if the French motor sport federation (FFSA) is able to bear the cost of a grand prix.

"If so, then at what site?" she added.

But as far as the government is concerned, she highlighted the environmental obstacle.

"A grand prix is not so much in terms of greenhouse emissions," admitted Jouanno, but she insisted that F1 should be more active on environmental matters.

"I have suggested to Jean Todt, president of the international federation (FIA), to initiate discussions to carbon-offset all the races," she added.