Jean Todt has backed reports France could return to the formula one calendar in future with a race to alternate annually with famous Belgian venue Spa-Francorchamps.<\/p>\n
A French newspaper quoted Spa promoter Andre Maes on Sunday as saying he had been recently “asked about” an alternating deal by French officials.<\/p>\n
“This may be interesting, so I am waiting for further news,” he told the Journal du Dimanche.<\/p>\n
Well-known French commentator Jean-Louis Moncet asked FIA president Todt about the reports on Monday and published his response in his Auto Plus column.<\/p>\n
“As president of the FIA, I am not directly involved in organising the grand prix of France but as I am French I would like to see it regain its place on the calendar.<\/p>\n
“I know that many people are involved and trying to find a positive solution, particularly at the highest levels of government, but for now we must leave them to address the problem.<\/p>\n
“If we can give a final push, we will,” added Todt.<\/p>\n
“I have heard about the possibility of an alternation, but quite informally.\u00a0 So I don’t have the information to be able to comment any further.”<\/p>\n
It is believed the venue most likely for the scheme is not Magny Cours, the scene of the last French grand prix in 2008, but Paul Ricard at Le Castellet, a circuit with close links to F1 chief executive Bernie Ecclestone.<\/p>\n
“It is surely one of the best circuits in the world,” the 80-year-old is quoted by sports.fr.\u00a0 “It would be ideal.<\/p>\n
“If someone comes to me and says ‘I have the money and need a circuit to organise a grand prix’, even if they are from China, as long as we can race in France, I’ll be happy,” added Ecclestone.<\/p>\n
The Journal du Dimanche said French prime minister Francois Fillon has appointed countryman and Renault team boss Eric Boullier to help with the efforts to revive the French GP.<\/p>\n
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