French GP set for mid-year date in 2018

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The return of the French Grand Prix to the F1 calendar will likely be scheduled around the mid-year period, according to race promoter Christian Estrosi.

The Circuit Paul Ricard, supported by the Provence-Alpes-Côtes d'Azur region, the Var department, the city of Toulon and the FFSA, will host the event based on a five-year deal with F1.

Estrosi met with F1 CEO Chase Carey at the Monaco Grand Prix for talks centered around the slot allocated to the event.

"In our conversation, I paid particular attention to the choice of the date for the grand prix, because it depends largely on the success of the race," Estrosi told French weekly Auto-Hebdo.

"We are now discussing the period from late June to mid July, and now FOM and FIA will offer us a specific date," he added.

"As soon as it becomes known, we will begin selling tickets."

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Estrosi said Carey is also keen to ensure that each country's grand prix accurately reflects the local culture.

"Chase wants the grand prix at Paul Ricard in the first instance to be truly French," he said.

"He wants the Spanish grand prix to reflect Catalonia and Barcelona, Italy to reflect Milan and Lombardy, and so on.

"He wants a national character and I really like his proposed approach," said Estrosi.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.