French GP set for further lifeline
LONDON, England -- The 2004 French Grand Prix could be thrown a further lifeline despite a New Year's eve deadline to decide the troubled race's fate.
The FIA handed France a reprieve this month when it gave the local federation an end-of-year ultimatum to secure the race's July 4 slot on the calendar.
But Minardi boss Paul Stoddart said: "I don't anticipate that the deadline is going to be one that is rigidly imposed. I really don't think there is such a thing as a deadline by tomorrow."
However, two conditions have to be met before January 1 for the race to happen.
Firstly, the FIA had to receive confirmation of a contract between Bernie Ecclestone's Formula One Management and the French Motor Sports Federation.
Secondly, all 10 teams had to agree to what would be an unprecedented 18th race on the calendar -- and one at which tobacco advertising is banned.
"There's been no vote, nothing at all, but that's not the be-all and end-all. Don't read too much into it. There's a team bosses meeting planned for mid-January and I'm sure it will come out there," added Stoddart.
