No state aid for a potential French Grand Prix

The return of a Formula 1 Grand Prix in France has been in the pipeline for many months now, but the matter isn’t really progressing, as there are still two circuits competing. One of the key issues is the funding of the race, and the government has made a decision by refusing any participation.

The Magny-Cours circuit is competing with that of Le Castellet for the potential organization of a French Formula 1 Grand Prix, and both tracks have recently submitted applications to the FFSA.

The two dossiers took into account state aid, through a subsidy (amounting to 2 million euros) and a guarantee in case of deficit for Magny-Cours, and through a state guarantee for Le Castellet, but neither will happen, as explained in a statement published by the FFSA: « Madame la Ministre confirmed that the State would not provide any financial contribution to the French Grand Prix, whether in the form of direct subsidies or a guarantee in case of operating deficit. In these conditions, the FFSA will question both project leaders on the future steps they plan to take in light of the lack of financial involvement from the State. »

Nicolas Deschaux, the President of the FFSA, expressed disappointment with this decision: « I would like to first acknowledge the seriousness of the work accomplished by the two candidates, as well as the voluntarism, especially financial, of the respective local authorities involved. I have received confirmation from the Minister that no financial involvement from the State would take place in this matter. While this position is certainly consistent with that regularly expressed by representatives of the State since 2009, I cannot help but regret it, especially considering the support provided by the State for other sporting events. »

However, this does not mean that the projects will stop, as the FFSA statement specifies that the promoters of a French Grand Prix at Castellet have expressed their willingness to study the feasibility of organizing a French Grand Prix, in the absence of State guarantee.

Nicolas Deschaux reaffirmed that despite the lack of involvement from the State, he would continue to focus on the French Grand Prix Formula 1 project: « I will approach the proponents of the two projects in the coming days to discuss with them the conditions for continuing their bids. »

Update: according to information from RMC Sport, the officials of the Circuit du Castellet have been working for over a month on an alternative solution that does not require state involvement. They are expected to meet tomorrow, Wednesday, September 26, with representatives from Formula One Management in London.