French GP can only be at Magny-Cours in 2009

UPDATE Magny-Cours looks sure to host the French Grand Prix again in 2009 and possibly for longer, Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone said on Sunday. "We've got a contract here for another couple of years," he told Reuters before the race at the rural French circuit near Nevers.

"Although the FFSA (French federation) who are the promoters agreed two years ago that 2008 would be the last race, now they are saying 2009 will be the last race but I'm sure its not."

Asked whether he expected the race to be back at Magny-Cours in 2009, he replied: "I'm sure. Book here."

Ecclestone admitted that he is still keen to see the French grand prix in Paris in the future.

"I think so but we'll have to see. We have a contract so we are here. When that contract stops, we'll have to see what we can do.

"I think (Paris) would be good. They've got hotels and the trains go there," he added.

06/21/08 (GMM) French motor federation chief Nicolas Deschaux has played down reports that the country's formula one race could be held at a venue other than Magny-Cours in 2009.

"Today, clearly, the federation is linked until 2009 to organize a grand prix at Magny-Cours," he said, according to L'Equipe.

Deschaux suggests that if F1 chief executive Bernie Ecclestone does not sanction a deal for a Magny-Cours race next year, there will not be a 2009 French grand prix anywhere else.

L'Equipe also said the French federation FFSA has a contract to organize the French grand prix until 2011.

The FFSA will meet to discuss the situation on June 26.

"On this basis the committee will decide upon the organization of a French grand prix in 2009," Deschaux said.