The possibility of France re-entering the Formula 1 world could hinge on the Paul Ricard track, which previously hosted the nation's grand prix until 2022.
Christian Estrosi, serving as Nice's mayor, also played a significant role in managing the Paul Ricard event before it was dropped from the F1 calendar due to financial issues.
The national government assigned Estrosi the responsibility of conducting a feasibility study on bringing Formula 1 back to France.
"Is it possible? Yes," he confirmed during an interview with L'Equipe.
"We have the facilities, the resources, and the know-how. It's all a question of will."
"We have seen in previous years that significant resources are required, the support of local authorities, as well as an essential and consistent commitment from the state."
Estrosi highlighted that Formula 1 expressed interest in two particular concepts: a race in the Ile-de-France area, encompassing Paris, and a street race in Nice.
"At the end of 2023, a project for a non-permanent circuit was mentioned but these communities did not wish to continue," he noted. "Nice had all the assets that were required, especially as we have experience of major international events."
Nevertheless, Estrosi pointed out a significant obstacle: Nice's proximity to Monaco. In his report to the federal government, he suggested that Paul Ricard remains the most viable option for hosting a future French Grand Prix.
