Le Castellet homologated to host F1 until 2016
The Circuit Paul Ricard has had its DEGREE 1 homologation, required for hosting Formula 1 single-seaters, renewed until 2016.
The Fédération Française du Sport Automobile (FFSA) and the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) visited the Paul Ricard circuit on May 14th for a possible extension of the circuit’s homologation to host Formula 1. The result was announced yesterday, and the Circuit du Castellet has been homologated GRADE 1 until July 2016.
Charlie Whiting, the F1 race director, explained in a letter partially transcribed in the statement published on the Var circuit’s website that the track met the standards to host F1: The circuit and its facilities are simply remarkable and meet the most stringent standards: surface, runoff areas, curbs, walls, barriers, and protective fences are in impeccable condition.
With this DEGREE 1 homologation, the Circuit Paul Ricard will be able to host free practice sessions, private sessions, and even Formula 1 Grand Prix. The French track even has the distinction of being homologated for three different layouts.
Stéphane Clair, the director of the Paul Ricard circuit, expressed his delight with this homologation, which is the result of recent efforts: Thanks to recent modifications in the pit lane, such as the installation of high-protection fencing and the establishment of secured posts for the marshals placed around the track, the Circuit Paul Ricard complies with the latest regulatory developments.
The quality of our technical installations – timing, telemetry, video network, pits – and our reception facilities – 3 and 5* hotels, suites, conference rooms, grandstands and VIP terraces – allow us to host the most demanding teams, all year round with the Mediterranean climate. Not to mention that here, nature is preserved with 350 hectares of pine forest maintained by our teams, continues the circuit director in the press release.
This homologation is independent of a possible hosting of a Formula 1 Grand Prix, as the Paul Ricard circuit was homologated to host F1 without actually organizing a race until now. However, this decision could accelerate the selection of the Var circuit for the possible holding of a French Grand Prix in the coming years.
