Jeremy Clarkson has labelled Greta Thunberg an “idiot” and blamed the climate activist for “killing” the car show. The 16-year-old has become a leading figure in the fight against climate change, but The Grand Tour host thinks she is responsible for young people losing interest in shows like the one he fronts.

David M. Benett via Getty Images Jeremy Clarkson

Speaking to The Sun, he said: “Everyone I know under 25 isn’t the slightest bit interested in cars – Greta Thunberg has killed the car show. “They’re taught at school, before they say ‘Mummy and Daddy’, that cars are evil, and it’s in their heads.”

PA Wire/PA Images Greta Thunberg

His co-host Richard Hammond agreed, saying: “I hate to say it, but I think Jeremy is right. “Young people don’t care about cars. How many kids now are growing up with posters of cars on their bedroom wall?” While Jeremy acknowledged global warming is “very definitely a thing”, the former Top Gear host claimed Greta’s approach is all wrong. “She’s an idiot,” he said. “Going round saying we’re all going to die, that’s not going to solve anything, my dear.”

Evan Agostini/Invision/AP Clarkson with Grand Tour co-hosts Richard Hammond and James May