Nevers Magny-Cours strikes back: the revival

In a press release published today, the general council of the Burgundy region announced that it has launched a new project to modernize the Nevers Magny-Cours circuit.

The project, supported by the Burgundy Region as well as the General Council of Nièvre, plans new infrastructure to host the Formula 1 paddock again in 2009. The statement thus reveals the creation of 27 pits that are twice as large as what the circuit currently offers, from 8 meters by 21 against 4 by 12 today. The project also includes the expansion of the area reserved for race direction, the press room, as well as the creation of a new conference room.

The circuit is, according to the drivers, appreciated for its layout, but the lack of overtaking makes it less attractive. The new project plans to widen the pit lane and the starting straight from 12 to 18 meters, while the starting line bridge will be replaced by a tunnel.

For accommodating the public, the project plans to cover the straight line stands with a roof as well as the construction of new covered stands to create a stadium with an additional capacity of 20,000 seats.

A 200-room hotel complex and a high-end 250-room hotel will also be built.

The Nièvre and Burgundy have also announced that they are ready to contribute to the financing of Magny-Cours, for which the State and the European Union will also be approached, the statement highlights, without specifying the amount or the start date of the work.

On February 29, Bernie Ecclestone, the director of Formula 1, stated his intention to organize the 2009 edition of the French Grand Prix in Paris, emphasizing that Magny-Cours was no longer a solution. This project to modernize the Nièvre circuit is expected to help in the effort to retain the French GP in a warm setting.

According to a press release from AFP and the General Council of Nièvre