Return of the French Grand Prix: Domenicali hasn’t really met “anyone” yet

It must be said that a return of the French Grand Prix would undoubtedly involve the creation of a new route, whether temporary or permanent. The drivers have never been big fans of the Paul Ricard circuit, and the FOM likes even less the difficulties of accessibility of the circuit for spectators, nestled up there in the Toulon hinterland. For two years, Nice's candidacy, obviously pushed by Christian Estrosi, seems to be making headway, and would have the advantage of being an urban and modern route, with the Côte d'Azur as a postcard, but proximity to Monaco seems to be putting a damper on the idea.

Stoppage for the French Grand Prix. © Antonin Vincent / DPPI

Unless Castellet, in a country where the legendary circuits are more historical than modern, remains the most realistic option to see Formula 1 happening again on French territory. “Jean (Alesi) became the president of the circuit and we have already discussed the subject, Domenicali slipped. There are logistical and traffic problems but if the commercial opportunity with enough spectators presents itself, why not. The circuit is undoubtedly the best and only possibility in your country. I met Pierre Fillon (president of the Automobile Club de l'Ouest) to talk about Le Mans but there are too many complications to bring F1 there.

In Sarthe, there is particular fear that a potential arrival of F1 on the Bugatti circuit would have a negative effect on the image, importance and unique character of the 24 hours of Le Mans. The return of F1 to France does not seem to be for tomorrow, especially at a time when applications from countries all over the world are multiplying, at costs much higher than what the return of Castellet to the calendar in 2018 had generated. .

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