France’s big return in 2018
“They have been both been very supportive of the IPTL the first two seasons and we look forward to bring them in future years.”
The tournament was to have marked the comeback of 35-year-old Federer, who has been sidelined since July with knee problems.
The government’s so-called “demonetisation” scheme has caused major cash shortages across India, with big queues outside banks now commonplace after authorities placed a daily limit on withdrawals.
Hyderabad is the third and final leg of this year’s IPTL which promotes a shortened version of the game that organisers say is more television-friendly than the traditional format.
The first leg was held in Tokyo from December 2-4, while the second leg began in Singapore yesterday. AFP PARIS: The French Grand Prix will return to the Formula One calendar in 2018 after a 10-year absence.
Christian Estrosi, the head of the Provence-Alpes-Cote d’Azur region, said on Monday that the race will be organised at the Paul Ricard circuit in southern France.
The world’s oldest grand prix was first held in 1906 but was dropped from the calendar in 2008 because of financial issues.
The Paul Ricard circuit, also known as Le Castellet, last hosted the French GP in 1990. The race was organized at Magny-Cours from 1991-2008.
Estrosi said French officials have sealed a five-year deal with F1 organisers. Financial terms were not disclosed.
“Losing the grand prix was a true scar for our country,” Estrosi said at the Automobile Club de France. “I can today make the firm and definitive announcement that the Grand Prix de France will return at the Paul Ricard circuit as soon as the 2018 summer.”
The announcement came just days after the German Grand Prix was dropped from the 2017 calendar.
Estrosi paid tribute to the late driver Jules Bianchi, who died last year following a long battle to recover from major head injuries sustained at the Japanese GP in October 2014.
“I’m dedicating this big return to my friend Jules,” Estrosi said. “My thoughts are with his family.”
Jean Todt, the president of motorsports’ world governing body, said the return of the French GP is an “enormous satisfaction” for FIA.
“This is big news for France and its capacity to host major international events,” Todt said in a pre-recorded message. “Le Castellet has been modernized and has all the required qualities to organise this event.” AP