France on 2009 calendar, US GP not
Ecclestone's revelation was confirmed from two corners on Wednesday; in a media statement issued by the promoting French motor sports federation (FFSA), and by the French grand prix's inclusion on the official provisional F1 calendar, published by the FIA.
"Of course, the (FFSA) general assembly, which will meet tomorrow, will have to confirm this decision, and also determine the future of the French grand prix from 2010 onwards," said FFSA president Nicolas Deschaux.
The provisional calendar, also confirming the arrival of the Abu Dhabi grand prix as the season finale in November, said the 2009 French grand prix will take place on June 28.
Notably missing from the draft schedule of 19 races, however, which was presented to the World Motor Sport Council in Paris by Bernie Ecclestone, is a date for a 2009 US grand prix.