Bernie Ecclestone has revealed that the French Grand Prix could return in 2013 as a replacement for the now postponed New Jersey race, which was moved back to 2014 due to construction delays.
Plans for a return to France have been circulating for a number of years now since Magny-Cours was dropped in 2008. However, the new Francois Hollande cabinet ruled out government backing for the event which killed off any plans for a comeback.
Ecclestone though says he’s ready to sign a contract for 2013 to ensure the calendar remains at 20 events.
“If they are ready, we can slot it in the calendar … As far as I’m concerned, yes. I’m hoping … we’re ready to sign, we’ve got a pen and we’re ready to sign,” said Ecclestone who turns 82 on Sunday.
However he confirmed funding remains an issue and which circuit would host the race, Magny-Cours or Paul Ricard.
“Which circuit is going to be used, where and who pays for it … that’s the bottom line.”
