Formula 1 in Paris, near the Eiffel Tower: a proposal that could bring the Circus back to France.
Since 2022, the last year the Circus raced at Le Castellet (a Grand Prix remembered for Leclerc’s mistake while leading the race), Formula 1 has been absent from France. Despite having three French drivers on the grid next year (Gasly, Ocon, and rookie Isack Hadjar), the country remains off the calendar for the third consecutive season.
And ironically, the person proposing a new French Grand Prix is an Italian: Flavio Briatore, currently a top consultant for the BWT Alpine F1 Team. Given his team’s French roots, the Italian manager has suggested a possible Grand Prix in Paris, featuring a street circuit. However, on paper, the idea seems quite challenging.
Flavio Briatore’s Words
In an interview with Le Figaro, the Italian manager shared his vision for the future of Formula 1, emphasizing the importance of preserving its historical roots: “It’s right to explore new markets, but we must not forget where it all began. France, for example, has lost Paul Ricard and Magny-Cours, but it deserves a Grand Prix. Paul Ricard is unfeasible due to traffic issues, but a race in Paris would be extraordinary.”
“It doesn’t necessarily have to be a circuit in the heart of the city or at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, but the French capital has everything needed to host an event of this magnitude.”
Briatore also highlighted the key requirements for bringing Formula 1 back to France: “There must be sufficient hotel capacity to accommodate teams, sponsors, and all the personnel involved. Everyone wants a race in France, and Formula 1 absolutely needs to return here.”
Regarding his return to the paddock, the former team principal explained: “I was never really away. I worked with Stefano Domenicali as a Formula 1 ambassador, focusing on new races and marketing opportunities. I also remain closely involved as Fernando Alonso’s manager. In recent years, I dedicated myself to my restaurant chain, which now runs on its own. I must admit, I missed Formula 1, and it all started with a conversation with Luca de Meo.”
Photo: BWT Alpine F1 Team