Renault show-run at Disneyland to launch build-up to French GP

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The Renault F1 Team will visit 15 cities and venues in April and May as part of the promotional build-up campaign to this year's French Grand Prix at Paul Ricard.

The race returned to the F1 calendar last year, amid much pain for many fans unfortunately who were forced to deal with massive traffic congestion around the Paul Ricard circuit.

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For its roadshow, Renault's traveling F1 squad will have on hand a thundering 2012-spec E20 and its historic R.S.01, while works drivers Daniel Ricciardo and Nico Hulkenberg will be in attendance at selected events.

The French Grand Prix will take place on June 23 but the show-runs will kick off in the land of Mickey Mouse, on Main Street at Disneyland Paris on April 6 and 7.

"This roadshow tour continues to expand throughout the country with, this year, the exceptional participation of 15 cities from six different regions," said GIP French GP president Christian Estrosi.

"I warmly thank the presidents of the Sud Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur and Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes regions, the partners who are accompanying us on this tour, as well as the mayors of the 14 municipalities that are hosting us for this unique event in the world.

"I look forward to meeting you there to share this preview of the Formula 1 Grand Prix de France."

April 6 and 7: Disneyland Park Paris
April 20: Marck (Pas-de-Calais)
April 26: Pierre-Bénite (Rhône)
April 27: Gap (Hautes-Alpes)
April 28: Valence (Drôme)
May 1: Nice (Alpes-Maritimes)
May 2: Auron (Alpes-Maritimes)
May 3: Châteaurenard (Bouches-du-Rhône)
May 4: Salon-de-Provence (Bouches-du-Rhône)
May 5: Toulon (Var)
May 8: Aix-en-Provence (Bouches-du-Rhône)
May 9: TBA
May 10: Sisteron (Alpes-de-Haute-Provence)
May 11: La Londe-les-Maures (Var)
May 12: Saint-Raphaël (Var)

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.