MONTREAL (AP) — Protester threats have forced organizers of the Canadian Grand Prix to cancel the free opening day of the event.
Formula One fans were supposed to have access to Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve at the “Open House” event Thursday. Instead, the event was scrapped because of security concerns.
The student group CLASSE has suggested the race be used as a platform for the protesters’ demonstrations over tuition fees. Quebec Premier Jean Charest in turn has been critical of threats toward the race, which generates an estimated $100 million in revenue for the city.
More than 300,000 spectators are expected to attend the June 8-10 event.
