Stefano Domenicali reveals Nice project as French GP could leave Circuit Paul Ricard

Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has hinted that Nice could well become the next host of the French Grand Prix, with Circuit Paul Ricard’s contract ending this summer.

The French GP is one of the most historic races in F1 but it’s not the first time in the sport’s history that we have seen suggestions that the venue could change or the event could be lost off of the calendar altogether.

Indeed, F1 didn’t visit France between leaving Magny-Cours and pitching up at Paul Ricard in a period of ten years between 2008 and 2018, but it would nonetheless be a shame to lose one of the classic events from the calendar despite recent precedent.

That, though, is a stark possibility with Paul Ricard, as with a number of other European venues, seeing its contract come to an end this summer after the race on July 24 and, indeed, it’s still unclear as to whether there will be a fresh agreement.

Indeed, F1 is adding new venues all the time and, after recently heading to South Africa over a potential agreement to bring Kyalami back into the fold after almost 30 years, Domenicali revealed things in France could change to see Nice host the race instead.

Speaking to L’Equipe, Domenicali explained:

“You are probably not aware, but there is an incredible project in Nice. They want a Grand Prix.

“It’s great, because it proves that other destinations in your country (France) are interested in Formula 1.

“We will look into the details and study it carefully. All I can tell you is that by the end of July you will know more about the future of your Grand Prix Historically, France is an important nation in motorsport.”

A hectic period awaits Domenicali with a number of tracks soon to be visited that still need to sort out new contracts to host F1.

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