French GP: Five things to look out for at Paul Ricard

A welcome return to France

The French Grand Prix is set for a long-awaited return this weekend following a decade away. The race was a regular on the F1 calendar and has been held 86 times, alternating between venues such as Reims, Rouen, Charade, Paul Ricard, Dijon and most recently, Magny-Cours.

Following the 2008 race, France was axed from the calendar amid ongoing financial issues. But after a 10-year hiatus, F1 is set to return to the country at a revamped Paul Ricard circuit. The 5.8km track, located at Le Castellet, last hosted a GP in 1990, although the race - won by home-favourite Alain Prost - took place around a shortened 3.8km version of the circuit.

This year’s event will see the addition of a chicane half way along the 1.12-mile long Mistral straight to prevent F1 engines running at full speed for the entire straight with the hope of boosting overtaking opportunities.