Formula E and Citroen Racing has announced the shock passing of its Team Principal, Cyril Blais, aged just 46.
The Frenchman’s death was confirmed by the all-electric championship and the French marque in a joint statement released on Monday, just days before the Tokyo E-Prix, the series’ penultimate weekend of races this season.
Blais’ Formula E journey was a successful one, having begun at Venturi, holding the role of race engineer for Lucas di Grassi, and remaining with the team as it transitioned to Maserati.
A quick rise through the ranks followed, with the change to Chief Engineer and to Deputy Team Principal and then, finally, full Team Principal ahead of its final season before remaining in ths post as the team became Citroen.
Under his stewardship, the team has enjoyed, in many respects, a successful season, with Nick Cassidy taking its maiden victory at the Mexico City E-Prix, just its second race.
“We are all so saddened to lose Cyril,” said its Managing Director, Beth Paretta. “Many of the team have known and worked with him for several years. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and colleagues throughout the paddock.
“Cyril believed so much in this team and we will respect his family’s wishes to honour him in the best way we can, by continuing to race in his memory with the exact dedication and passion he instilled in all of us.”
Formula E CEO and FIA president pay tribute
Blais received further tributes, notably from CEO of Formula E, Jeff Dodds, and FIA president, Mohammed Ben Sulayem.
“We are heartbroken by the loss of our colleague and friend, Cyril, and our heartfelt thoughts and condolences are with his family, loved ones and all those who knew him,” Dodds said.
“Cyril’s passing is a devastating loss for his family, for MSG, Citroën Racing, and for our entire Formula E community. We have lost an extraordinary colleague, and someone many of us were proud to call a friend.
“The entire Formula E paddock is supporting one another through this incredibly difficult period.
“To honour his immense contribution to the sport, the Citroën Racing Formula E Team and the wider Formula E community will pay tribute to Cyril’s memory and incredible legacy during this weekend’s Tokyo E-Prix.”
Ben Sulayem said: “The entire motorsport community is deeply saddened by this tragic news, and Cyril will be greatly missed by all who were fortunate to know and work with him.
“He was dedicated to our sport, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues, competitors and friends across the paddock. His passion, determination and belief in his team were evident in all he did.
“Beyond his achievements on track, Cyril will be remembered for the integrity he brought to our sport. He made a lasting impression on everyone who worked alongside him, and his absence will be felt deeply.
“On behalf of myself and the FIA, I extend heartfelt condolences to Cyril’s family, friends and colleagues. Our thoughts are with them during this incredibly difficult time.”
Motorsport Week sends its condolences to Cyril Blais’ family, friends and teammates at Citroen Racing.
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