WASHINGTON (August 13, 1996)--The Americans for Tobacco-Free Children lobbyist group Tuesday condemned cigarettes manufacturers' continued motorsports sponsorship and fiscal support when involved advertising influence affects children event attendees.

The group claims a tobacco-inclusive lifestyle sponsored drivers, teams and events portray delivers an unhealthy theme to American youth.

"These children idolize drivers," the ATFC said to ABC Radio Tuesday. "Do we want them idolizing the Marlboro Man and Joe Camel?"

ATFC officials claim tobacco industry statistics indicating three percent total of auto racing event attendance comprised of minors--from which the Food and Drug Administration permitted tobacco motorsports sponsorship previously--actually holds 12 additional percentage points, as the lobbyists' research reportedly illustrates 15 percent of all motorsports spectators are children.

The movement occurs following recent Presidential legislation proposing restricted tobacco advertising including sporting events and team, car, driver and event motorsports support.

Jeff Tessin covers the PPG IndyCar Series freelance and publishes a Midwestern fan newsletter.