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France 'auto-phobic', says Prost

Alain Prost says France has 'hit the bottom' © Sutton Images

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• Drivers:
• Alain Prost

• Teams:
• Renault

Four-time world champion and former team owner Alain Prost says he is saddened by Renault's decision to sell its remaining shares to Group Lotus because it reflects badly on his country's commitment to Formula One.

RenaultF1 announced on Wednesday that Group Lotus will be the title sponsor and a major shareholder in the rebranded Lotus Renault GP Team in 2011. And, according to Prost, the move means that France no longer cares about the sport he loves.

"These are the facts. We [France] have hit the bottom," Prost told Auto Hebdo. "You can be optimistic and hope people realise this is not a good thing for a car country like France. So perhaps there will be measures or strategies implemented to return things to normal, maybe even better than in the past.

"But it's extremely difficult right now because our country has become a little auto-phobic. Companies and marques have no desire to invest in Formula One."

Although Renault continues to manufacture and supply engines to Formula One teams, there is no French Grand Prix on the calendar and no French drivers on the grid.

"That there is no French Grand Prix is one thing, but that there are no French drivers racing is a big gap. That is what brings people's interest to the sport. For me it's not a surprise and it wasn't inevitable."

Prost himself drove for Renault in the early 80s and formed a team in his own name after taking over and re-branding the famous Ligier outfit. But Prost is saddened that there is now no name in the sport for France to be proud of.

"The Renault team was part of history and heritage so when you lose that it's hard to get back. Being an engine supplier of course is very good, but I think it [Renault's departure as a team owner] is a shame. But then, I understand the need to make savings. But it's going to be more even difficult for France and French drivers."

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