Julien Fébreau driving a Benetton B198 F1 at the Historic French Grand Prix

The deadline is approaching, and the 2026 Historic French Grand Prix is ​​already starting to take shape. While the program is already packed with benchmark cars, a great surprise was announced to the public this Thursday, March 18th. Indeed, Julien Fébreau, journalist and commentator of the Formula 1 On Canal+, he will take part in the various single-seater parades at the Paul Ricard circuit. For the occasion, the man with over 200 Grand Prix experience will get behind the wheel of the Benetton B198 from the 1998 season.

Following Jean Alesi's departure for Sauber, the 1998 F1 season was marked by the presence of Alexander Wurz and Giancarlo Fisichella within the Italian team. Powered by a [power unit name missing] Renault RS9 V10 rebadged Playlife, this version of the Benetton had climbed to fifth position in the Constructors' Championship, nevertheless taking Giancarlo Fisichella to two podiums, two second places acquired in Monaco, then Montreal.

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Accustomed to driving, the voice of Formula 1 in France has already undertaken similar adventures. At the wheel of theAlpine A521, at Monza, in 2022, Julien Fébreau had to prove his worth on the other side of the mirror. Andros Trophy, but also a victory in Dreux during the final round of the 2025 season RallycrossThis will not be the person in question's first attempt.

At Le Castellet, Julien Fébreau won't be the only one awaited by a crowd never short of surprises. This year, several F1 races will be featured, showcasing cars from 1966 to 1985, as well as... F2 dating from 1967 to 1978, or even Formula Renault, from 1972 to 2009. After a record-breaking 2025 edition, during which the public once again brought smiles to guests such as Jean Alesi, Alain Prost, or Charles LeclercThis new occurrence promises to be even more spectacular.