Future of French Grand Prix in the balance

A decision on whether or not to stage next year’s Formula One French Grand Prix will be taken on December 12.

The future of the race has been thrown into doubt as organisers owe money to F1 mogul Bernie Ecclestone, but there is still a possibility there could be a race in 2004.

Jacques Regis, president of the Federation Francaise de Sport Automobile (FFSA), revealed at a press conference today that a final decision would be taken by world governing body FIA.

Regis said: “The final decision to know if the French Grand Prix will happen next year will take place on December 12 at the world council meeting of the FIA.”

Regis admitted that the budget crisis that is jeopardising the race at Magny Cours is a severe one.

“At this moment we are seven million euros short of the required figure to seal budget,” he said.

The Paul Ricard Circuit has been mentioned as an alternative venue, but Regis Magny Cours is the only possible venue for next year’s race.

“If we cannot sort out the budget there will not be a Grand Prix in France,” he said.