Disneyland Paris & Formula 1

Up until now (!), many racetracks around the world have courted the favour of Formula 1 bigshot Bernie Ecclestone for consideration in the annual Formula 1 circus. Now for the first time ever though, some audible protest against a potential Formula 1 race is growing louder. Ever since the “traditional” French Formula 1 track in the central location of Magny-Cours was definitely thwarted by Ecclestone, the former Formula 1 world champion Alain Prost has been fighting for a follow-up race at Disneyland Paris. Because Ecclestone has a special love of urban racetracks, Prost’s wish seems to have thoroughly good prospects, especially since it would also be an elegant marketing campaign for Disneyland. However, residents are now mobilising against the planned racetrack with considerable protests: they’re worried about the noise, litter, pollution and total traffic chaos that would automatically go hand in hand with a weekend of races. Just imagine: Mickey and Minnie with ear and nose plugs… Where are the “magic moments?” some ask with disapproval. Or can the F1 drivers not get by without some fairy shine nowadays? (eap)