24/07/2007
NEWS STORY
It looks as though Magny-Cours will be back on the F1 calendar in 2008, and possibly even 2009.
Speaking at the Nurburgring at the weekend, following speculation that there had been a change of heart over the decision to drop the track from the F1 schedule, Bernie Ecclestone confirmed that talks were ongoing.
The speculation followed a statement issued by the FFSA last week in which the French motorsport authority reaffirmed its determination to continue hosting a round of the World Championship until its current expires in 2001. The FFSA declared that it was searching out alternative sites for the French GP.
Speaking at the weekend, Ecclestone revealed that there had been a change of heart: "The venue will be kept for 2009 if there are no solutions for an alternative," he said.
It is now understood that following a meeting between Ecclestone and France Prime Minister Francois Fillon, Magny-Cours will host the 2008 race and possible the 2009 event, though there has been no official confirmation as yet.
"Mr Ecclestone said he agreed in principle with keeping the French Grand Prix at the Magny-Cours circuit," said a statement from Fillon's office.