Tobacco rules cancel Montreal Grand Prix

MONTREAL, Aug. 8 (UPI) -- Montreal has lost its 2004 Formula 1 Grand Prix race because of tobacco advertising laws, the Montreal Gazette reported Friday.

The federal government's anti-tobacco law was passed in 1997, but provided a seven-year grace period to allow events reliant on tobacco sponsorship to find replacements.

A grim Normand Legault, CEO of the Canadian Grand Prix promotion organization explained, "That means Michael Schumacher's Ferrari could not carry Marlboro's colors. Based on this, Formula One has the legal right to terminate our contract."

The cancellation of the 25-year-old event that draws tens of thousands of fans from around the world angered Mayor Gerald Tremblay, who said the move is no way to thank Montreal for helping popularize the race.

The event brings at least $50 million (CAD 75 million) to the city each year.

The Belgian Grand Prix at Spa was cancelled this season because of a similar tobacco ad ban.