Renault livery change for Canada likely in 2012

Renault will not change its livery for next weekend’s grand prix, but it may have to the next time it visits Canada.

We reported in January that the team’s new Lotus-sponsored black and gold livery might fall afoul the country’s strict anti-tobacco advertising laws.

Renault’s 2011 livery is a tribute to the Lotus cars of the 70s and 80s, whose black and gold colours were to promote a famous cigarette brand.

"It (Quebec) has accepted the fact that (we) receive no direct or indirect financing from the (tobacco) industry in question," said team boss Eric Boullier.

"We would like to thank them for acknowledging our good faith."

Added the Renault media statement: "The team has agreed to work with the Quebec authorities on a more noticeable way to keep complying with the local legislation in 2012."