Paul Ricard owner Slavica Ecclestone 'impressed' with her circuit

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Unbeknownst to many, Bernie Ecclestone's ex-wife Slavica is the proud owner of the Circuit Paul Ricard, and the 60-year-old former Croatian model has declared herself happy with her property's development.

Slavica Ecclestone inherited the Paul Ricard track as a result of her divorce settlement with the former F1 supremo.

The ex-Mrs 'E' and glamour girl, who apparently takes a keen interest in her asset, recently visited Le Castellet for a general inspection, accompanied by former F1 driver Jean Alesi.

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"I am very impressed with everything that has been done," she told France's Press Association.

"It's completely different and I'm very happy. It's unique and more impressive than other circuits.

"I was very happy when I learned that they had decided to have a Grand Prix here. I have heard a lot about it from the news and from my advisors and friends in a very positive way."

Former Ferrari driver Alesi also said he is impressed with the 'new' Paul Ricard.

"It's great that the French Grand Prix is back here," he said.

"There are a lot of people who have not been here since the 90s. They will be very surprised."

Slavica's satisfaction with a job well done will no doubt be felt as a sigh of relief by the entire F1 community...

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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.