Ecclestone mentions Magny-Cours for a return of F1 in France
While all eyes seemed to be turned towards the Paul Ricard circuit for a possible return of F1 to France in 2013, Bernie Ecclestone mentioned Magny-Cours as the most likely track.
Bernie Ecclestone seems inclined to see France back on the calendar in 2013 to make up for the postponement of the Grand Prix of the Americas, which was supposed to take place in New Jersey.
While the chances of Castellet against Magny-Cours seemed higher, especially because the officials of the Paul Ricard circuit reportedly have ways to fund the return of a French Grand Prix without state aid, Bernie Ecclestone muddied the waters by stating, as quoted by Auto Motor und Sport: “If we go to France (next year), it will be to Magny-Cours.”
However, according to Patrick Tambay, former Formula 1 driver, these statements may have been made to put pressure on Paul Ricard, at least that’s what he hinted to RMC Sport.
The radio also contacted Serge Saulnier, the head of the Nevers Magny-Cours circuit, but he refused to comment following Ecclestone’s remarks. According to RMC Sport, the project to bring F1 back to Magny-Cours is not entirely on hold and may still be competing against Paul Ricard.
Bernie Ecclestone also hinted that if F1 returns to France, it could take place on the weekend of June 23, 2013, one week before the British Grand Prix.
