French GP asks for cash

Jacques Regis, the president of French motorsport's governing body the FFSA, has called on the government to front up with part of the £4.85million (€7million) he says is needed to rescue the 2004 French Grand Prix

Nov 27, 2003, 4:33 PM

"We need €7million to guarantee the French Grand Prix in 2004," Regis told a press conference at the FFSA's offices.

"I think it is up to France to reply to our request. The grand prix is a tourist attraction and I could not understand it if it did not come to our aid."

Regis has started talks with a group of interested parties - both public and private - with a view to raising the money.

"I am optimistic," he said. "If the promises of our private partners are backed up I believe we will save the Grand Prix."

Although grand prix racing's commercial boss Bernie Ecclestone says that the race has definitely been dropped from the 2004 calendar, Regis claims he has received an assurance from FIA president Max Mosley that the final decision will not be taken until the next World Council meeting on December 12.