The head of F1, Stefano Domenicali, took advantage of an exclusive interview to take stock of the future of the French Grand Prix. While the door remains open, the Italian slams the lack of involvement of the State with a memorable punchline.
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Since its last edition held in 2022 at the Castellet circuit, the French Grand Prix has been sorely missed on the premier class calendar. Yet, the enthusiasm around French motorsport has never been stronger. Between exceptional TV audiences, massive investment from the Alpine team, and ultra-performing French drivers at the highest level, all indicators are green on the fans’ side.
Passing through Var for the Historic French Grand Prix, an event described as “exceptional” and an “incredible weekend” by the Italian who praised the work of Jean Alesi, Stefano Domenicali was very clear-headed. Comparing the French situation with his recent trip to Montreal – where ministers, mayors, and political representatives jostle to secure the future of their race – the FOM boss’s assessment is unequivocal.
“Respectfully, I think France currently considers a Grand Prix not to be its priority,” he said in an interview with the daily L’Équipe.
For him, the contrast is striking: on one side, nations ready to do anything to host F1, and on the other, a French government totally absent.
“I haven’t received many calls starting with +33”
The message from Formula 1 is clear: to organize a modern race, solid commitment is needed at all levels, especially political. If Emmanuel Macron once made headlines in sports media by showing a superficial interest in the matter, discussions have stalled. Stefano Domenicali did not hesitate to place an ironic jab directly addressed to the Élysée:
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“During one of our interviews, I believe we made the front page of L’Équipe talking about President Macron. But since then, I haven’t received many calls starting with +33.”
Formula 1, overwhelmed with requests from new countries around the world, will not wait for France. It is up to French promoters and politicians to take the initiative and pick up their phone.
Beyond the French Grand Prix, a calendar under pressure
Beyond the French case, Stefano Domenicali also revealed the behind-the-scenes of a highly tense end of the season due to the international geopolitical context. Asked about the uncertainties weighing on certain world rounds, the big boss confirmed that F1 is moving very pragmatically, similar to the management of the Covid-19 crisis.
Faced with the risks of having to cancel some late events, the FOM has already planned everything: “I can confirm that we have a backup plan. If end-of-year races cannot take place, we will have other replacement solutions.”
Fans can rest assured, the championship will not end prematurely. But to see the French Grand Prix back in the middle of this ultra-competitive calendar, it will take much more than just smiles in the paddocks.
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