Jean Todt insists it is not up to him to revive France’s grand prix.
Despite earlier efforts by venues Paul Ricard and Magny Cours to raise the tricolour once again, the last remaining spot on the 2013 calendar is now expected to be filled by either Turkey or Austria.
But with F1’s Paris based governing body headed by a Frenchman, president Todt, surely the 66-year-old could wield his power in favour of a French grand prix?
"It is up to neither the FIA nor its president to address this problem," he is quoted as insisting.
"It is up to the French motor sport federation, the regions and eventually the French authorities.
"But as someone passionate about motor racing, I would be happy if there is a grand prix de France.
"If the file arrives on my desk, I will obviously do what I can for a favourable outcome. But that is still to happen," insisted Todt, according to French reports.