Todt keen to see French GP back on calendar

Wednesday 4th November 2009

Newly elected FIA President Jean Todt admits he is keen to see the French Grand Prix back on the Formula One calendar.

France did not host a grand prix this year - the first time in more than 50 years - and will once again be absent from the 2010 calendar due to financial problems.

Todt held a meeting with French Prime Minister Francois Filion on Monday to discuss the grand prix's future.

"I find that it would be a shame if France did not have its Grand Prix. Losing such a prestigious international event could have economic consequences," he told the AFP news agency.

The FIA boss also insists that it is not necessary to build a new circuit as three tracks - Le Mans, Paul Ricard, and Magny-Cours - are all capable of hosting the event.

"There are at least three which could host the race in France."

Your Comments

Alpina

"It's Bernie Ecclestone, and ONLY Bernie Ecclestone who decides whether or not Jean Todt can have his French G.P or if we can have OUR British G.P. If HE says YES then Jean Todt can do what FIA is supposed to do, that is to make sure that the rules are adhered to, that's FIA's job. For him to even intimate that he may have some control over the running of the French G.P is misleading to say the least. Unfortunately it's totally FOM's call! Sad isn't it?"

bcnurse

"Good on you ! but dont forget the British GP either , some of the new circuits fantastic as they are for the playboys the racing has been dull to say the least !!"

chasto

"Give over! Why? This smacks of "Moselyism" all over again - Todt assumes the Prez chair and suddenly nationalistic self interest takes to the fore? Well, I guess it's a little different that Maxy, who didn't seem to give a toss about a GBGP. That said, please remember that there is a reason why the French GP fell of the calendar.....and just because Todt wants it back is not a sufficient reason to get it back. USGP should be a priority for the good of the sport. Then again, again, given the dearth of manufacturers in left in the game...no real compelling reason to showcase in the worlds largest auto market....how the world turns..."