French GP expects positive announcement on contract extension soon

The organisers of the French Grand Prix are confident that the Paul Ricard circuit will also be on the calendar in 2023. According to the race promoter, a positive announcement will follow in the coming weeks.

Rumour has it that the French GP will disappear from the calendar after this season, as will the Belgian Grand Prix. The contract of Paul Ricard expires this season and there have been few talks about renewal.

In 2023, Las Vegas will be added to the calendar and there is also said to be interest in a race in South Africa. The calendar is thus becoming increasingly full, which means that a number of current races will have to make way for other circuits. However, the future of the French GP can be saved according to race promoter Christian Estrosi. He expects a positive announcement in the coming weeks.

"It’s the end of a contract in which France had to show its know-how in organisation. 200,000 people filled the circuit between Friday and Sunday, which is an absolute record", he is quoted by France24.com.

"We are in the middle of a discussion, so no, I am not resigned. I saw our country regain its Grand Prix de France, this magnificent, popular sporting event. I am convinced that in the coming weeks, we will have extremely positive things to announce for the future of our Grand Prix", says the promoter. Earlier rumours also reported that the French GP may in the future be moved to the coastal city of Nice, of which Estrosi is the mayor.