Todt's 'mystery race' diplomacy
2012-12-13 11:23
RACE DIPLOMACY: FIA president Jean Todt insists it's not within his power to influence the selection of the host of F1's 2013 'mystery race'.
PARIS, France - Jean Todt insists it is not up to him to revive France's Formula 1 GP.
Despite earlier efforts by the Paul Ricard and Magny Cours tracks to raise the Tricolor again, the last remaining spot on the 2013 calendar is now expected to be filled by either Turkey or Austria.
Given F1's Paris-based governing body is headed by a Frenchman, president Todt, surely the 66-year-old could wield his power in favour of a French GP?
NOT MY CALL
Todt insists: "It's up to neither the FIA nor its president to address this problem. It's up to the French motorsport federation, the regions and eventually the French authorities.”
He did, however, add: “As someone passionate about motor-racing I would be happy if there was a grand prix de France. If the file arrives on my desk I will do what I can for a favourable outcome - but that has still to happen."