IOC chief Rogge rules out F1 as Olympic sport
SILVERSTONE, England - The Associated Press
Britain's Jenson Button driving a McLaren-Mercedes Formula 1 car during qualifying at the Silverstone circuit, England, Saturday, July 7, 2012. AP Photo
IOC President Jacques Rogge has ruled out Formula One as an Olympic sport saying that the games are about athletes, not engines.Rogge is in Silverstone for the British Grand Prix. He says the F1 drivers are "very courageous," but adds that the "concept we are having is the games are about the competition for the athletes, not for equipment."
"While having a lot of respect, (motorsport) will not be included into the Olympic program," Rogge told The Associated Press during a tour of the Silverstone paddock with F1 chief Bernie Ecclestone on Sunday.
Championship leader Fernando Alonso will start from pole after the Spaniard claimed the top spot for Ferrari by mastering the rain-soaked track during qualifying Saturday.
