Circuit Paul Ricard, the venue for the returning French Grand Prix next year, would be more than willing to host at least one Formula 1 pre-season test in 2018.
The track at Le Castellet has been used to test F1 cars on numerous occasions in the past, with Pirelli using the circuit to develop their tyres in recent years.
It has never hosted an official pre-season test though, with that honour typically bestowed on Spain’s Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya and most teams would prefer testing to be centred around the Middle East at Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina Circuit and Bahrain’s Sakhir Circuit.
The facilities at Paul Ricard, however, are considered among the best around and earlier reports of a plan to install a circuit heating system alongside that which can simulate wet conditions would make for the ideal destination.
“With great pleasure,” circuit boss Stephane Clair told France’s L’Equipe when asked if he wanted a 2018 test.
“Our application makes sense, too, we are preparing for it. The teams know the quality of our services and with Magneti Marelli, our telemetry facilities mean the teams have less to take to the testing.
“Also, as the teams will not know the new track, it could be tempting for them. The only question is whether we will share with another circuit. Discussions are ongoing,” he added.
Recently there has been speculation as to whether French Grand Prix organisers would decide to use all of the famous Mistral Straight at Paul Ricard for the race, a change from the initial plan which was to add one of the numerous chicanes that have been installed at different parts along it.
However, that may not be the only track alteration before next year’s race with Clair revealing: “The circuit for the Grand Prix will be different even if we use the big layout traditionally used by F1.
“This is an idea we’ve had for a long time and one that has been validated by the FIA.
“The work will be performed at the time of resurfacing that is part of the closure of the track in December and January.”