Petitions against planned F1 circuit in Rio after letter from Chase Carey

Formula 1 has long been in discussion with organisers in Rio de Janeiro as a replacement for the Grand Prix in São Paolo. Now that a concrete agreement has been reached, all that remains is to approve the plans, but that meets with resistance.

The planned racetrack would be built in Camboata forest, a small green spot in an otherwise highly urbanised area. Various government bodies still have to give their approval, but a letter from Chase Carey to Governor Claudio Castro expresses confidence in the matter.

"These agreements are ready for execution and announcement by Formula 1 as soon as all necessary licences have been issued by the relevant authorities, INEA/CECA, in Brazil/Rio de Janeiro", he is quoted by Autosport.com.

Carey's letter met with considerable opposition on the internet from Brazilians and environmental organisations. They have launched several petitions to combat the deforestation of the Deodoro district forest. However, Carey's letter does not state that the circuit must necessarily be built at this location, so there seems to be room for manoeuvre.