It's all systems go for French Grand Prix at Paul Ricard!

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The French Grand Prix scheduled for the summer of 2018 at the Paul Ricard circuit was officially confirmed yesterday by organisers at press conference.

Christian Estrosi, the President of the PACA region which has jurisdiction over the race, said that all financial guarantees and covenants had been fulfilled.

A former motorcycle racer who turned to politics, Estrosi actually enjoyed a few laps of Paul Ricard in one of the Winfield driving school's Formula 1 cars. Formula E charger Nicolas Prost was on hand to offer some advice.

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"The Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region will be the reference shareholder of GIP," said Estrosi.

"Communities will finance the Grand Prix budget to an amount of € 14 million for a franchise cost which compares to the average European race fee.

"On the commercial front, we have already held discussions with potential partners from the industrial and services sector."

Circuit Paul Ricard manager believes the race will be scheduled in late August and is hoping attendance figures will reach 65,000, with teh event's cheapest tickets selling at around €50 or €60.

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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.