France has a long history of organising high-profile races and a worldwide reputation for automotive expertise. The world’s eyes will be on the country as it hosts a week-long celebration of motorsport this month.

The organisers of these two international events, Pierre Fillon, President of the Automobile Club de l’Ouest, and Christian Estrosi, President of GIP Grand Prix de France, are delighted with the buzz being generated, the entertainment promised for fans and the knock-on effects for the French automotive sector.

Pierre Fillon, President of the Automobile Club de l’Ouest, organiser of the 24 Hours of Le Mans (16-17 June): “Some people might expect rivalry between two events such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the French Grand Prix, held just one week apart. I see it more as a two-pronged opportunity to highlight the values of motor racing through two of its biggest disciplines. It is a chance for us, as the organisers, to assert our commitments and our beliefs at a time when the motoring sector is undergoing major change. This celebration of motorsport will thrill many French fans and give our projects an international platform.”

Christian Estrosi, President of GIP Grand Prix de France (24 June): “My organising team and our regional partners have managed to put France back on the Formula One calendar, after a ten-year hiatus. This is more than just a sporting event: it is a way of showcasing our country and its culture. Like the 24 Hours of Le Mans, created in 1923, we are protecting our motoring heritage while securing its future development. We are glad to see motorsport and motoring being promoted in different ways.”

One driver will be competing in both races in France: Fernando Alonso, two-time F1 champion with French carmaker Renault, will contest the 24 Hours of Le Mans in a Toyota hybrid prototype, before lining up to race in the French Grand Prix with his F1 team, McLaren.