Friday 21 November at 18:00 : Nov.21 (GMM) Former grand prix driver Jean-Pierre Beltoise has welcomed news that Disneyland Paris is no longer bidding to host the French grand prix

The 71-year-old, who raced both motorcycle and four-wheeled grand prix machinery, is closely involved with the alternate plans to bring formula one to the Sarcelles commune in Paris' northern suburbs

Referring to the end of Disneyland's bid, he told L'Equipe: "It's a good thing for French motor sport

"Why? Because in Paris we lack a circuit for automobile racing and testing. The Disneyland project was for a temporary track that would be active for only 3 or 4 days of the year

"So from this point of view, the abandonment of the project is good news because the investment can now be used for a true automotive stage that can be used all the year," said Beltoise

He said organisers of the Sarcelles project are "in contact" with F1 chief executive Bernie Ecclestone, who is interested in their plans

"Now we are waiting. We will have an answer in a few weeks," he said