The French Grand Prix is scheduled to take place from 22-24 July at Circuit Paul Ricard
The French GP is one of the oldest motor races in the world as well as the first “Grand Prix”. It ceased shortly after its centenary in 2008 with 86 races having been held, due to unfavorable financial circumstances and venues. The race returned to the Formula One calendar in 2018 with Circuit Paul Ricard hosting the race.
The Circuit Paul Ricard track was built in 1969 at Le Castellet, Var, near Marseille, with finance from pastis magnate Paul Ricard. Ricard wanted to experience the challenge of building a racetrack. The circuit has hosted the FIA Formula One French Grand Prix since 2018, having previously hosted it intermittently from 1971 to 1983, and every year from 1985 to 1990.
The track is characterized by its 1.8 km (1.1 mi) long Mistral straight and elongated track design. The track is also unusual in that it is built on a plateau – it is very flat. It spans a total length of 5.842 km, comprising 15 turns. It is an FIA Grade 1 licensed circuit.
The record for the most number of wins at the French GP is held by Michael Schumacher – 8 wins. Ferrari is the most successful constructor with 17 wins. Meanwhile, Sebastian Vettel has the fastest lap record at the circuit – registering a timing of 1:32.740, driving for Ferrari in 2019.
Where do things stand ahead of the French GP?
Red Bull dominates the drivers’ championship standings despite a disappointing outing for Sergio Perez in Austria. Max Verstappen leads the standings with 208 points. Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc has overtaken Perez and now occupies second place with 170 points. Perez lies third with 151 – ahead of Carlos Sainz, George Russell, and Lewis Hamilton.
In the constructors’ championship, Red Bull leads the table with 359 points, and Ferrari is significantly behind in second place with 303 points. Mercedes are further behind – they occupy third place, having earned 237 points.
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