The French GP which takes place at Circuit Paul Ricard is one of the oldest motor races in the world
F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has confirmed there will be no Grand Prix in France next season. This news comes after months of speculation about the French GP’s future in F1, with most reports suggesting its days on the Formula 1 calendar were numbered. The removal of Paul Ricard from the calendar is a part of F1’s broader ambition to lower the number of European races on the schedule
With the sport expanding into different regions, taking advantage of the lucrative financial packages offered by event organisers beyond the continent, certain European races would always be at risk. Monaco and Spa are currently in negotiations with F1 to secure a new contract and safeguard their positions in the sport. Ultimately, the financial packages offered by circuits are crucial in acquiring calendar slots, hence the introduction of Qatar and Saudi Arabia.
Mixed reactions have come in from fans on the FIA’s decision to remove a historical race like the French GP. Let us take a look at some of the most interesting reactions.
“This is a shame. Paul Ricard had actually provided some really good racing the last few years”, wrote a fan, who clearly opposes the removal.
“Big loss for us, we have 2 french drivers on the grid and it’s a big moment in our country. I don’t wanna see an other US or middle east GP”, tweeted a fan from France.
“Monaco either needs to adapt with the times or move on. Yes we can respect tradition but when it gets in the way of the future you must move on. Alonso proved why it’s boring earlier this year”, wrote another fan, referring to F1’s plans of removing more historical circuits from the calendar.
“It’s a shame, after all we have a French team and two French drivers at the moment and maybe three next year.It would be nice if races were held in the home countries of the teams and, if possible, the drivers”, wrote another fan, echoing similar thoughts.
“Not a huge fan of this track but would’ve rather had it instead of Las Vegas and Miami”, read another tweet.
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