Widespread grief in Formula E after the death of team principal Cyril Blais (43)

As team principal, Blais was naturally closely involved in Citroën Racing’s Formula E program. Within the team and the rest of the paddock, he was known for his drive, integrity, and deep passion for motorsport. During the upcoming Tokyo E-Prix, Citroën Racing and the Formula E community will pause to mark his passing and pay tribute to his legacy.

Managing director Beth Paretta says the loss has hit the team hard. "We are all so saddened to lose Cyril. Many of the team have known and worked with him for several years. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and colleagues throughout the paddock. Cyril believed so much in this team, and we will respect his family's wishes to honour him in the best way we can, by continuing to race in his memory with the exact dedication and passion he instilled in all of us.” Read her words in the statement Formula E shared this Monday morning.

The team, therefore, wants to honour his memory by continuing to race with the same commitment and passion that he instilled in his staff. Formula E CEO Jeff Dodds is also deeply affected. He calls the passing a devastating loss for Blais’s family, MSG, Citroën Racing, and the entire Formula E community. “We are heartbroken by the loss of our colleague and friend, Cyril, and our heartfelt thoughts and condolences are with his family, loved ones and all those who knew him."

FIA president Mohammed ben Sulayem has also expressed his shock at Blais’s sudden passing. He states that the Frenchman enjoyed the respect and admiration of colleagues, competitors, and friends in the paddock. “The entire motorsport community is deeply saddened by this tragic news, and Cyril will be greatly missed by all who were fortunate to know and work with him. He was dedicated to our sport, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues, competitors and friends across the paddock. His passion, determination and belief in his team were evident in all he did. Beyond his achievements on track, Cyril will be remembered for the integrity he brought to our sport,” said the Emirati.

Xavier Chardon, CEO of Citroën, and Olivier Jansonnie, head of Stellantis Motorsport, emphasise that Blais played a key role from the outset in the collaboration between MSG and Citroën Racing. They describe a particularly painful loss and extend their condolences to his family, loved ones, and colleagues. The organisations involved ask that the privacy and wishes of the family be respected. No further details about the circumstances of his passing will therefore be shared.