No decisions on French race in 2009: Federation

The chairman of the French racing Federation (FFSA) Nicolas Deschaux said Thursday that no decision had been made on the venue of the French Formula One race in 2009 following this season's edition at Magny Cours.

That race goes ahead on June 22 but Formula One boss Bernie Ecclestone last week said he would like to see Paris host a Grand Prix in 2009.

"Much has been written about the French Grand Prix for 2009," said Deschaux.

"It is nothing new that Mr Ecclestone is calling for an approach on Paris but as things stand there is nothing finalised regarding next year.

"Once the 2008 race is out of the way we will see about the future," Deschaux concluded.

Ecclestone had said that the organisers "need a site for the French Grand Prix as we won't go back to Magny-Cours".

Magny-Cours in central France has been much maligned for its comparative lack of hotel infrastructure and traffic problems.

"A Grand Prix in London or Paris would be better for spectators and for television," Ecclestone insisted, while admitting that London did not seem to be a viable option at present.