From 8 to 10 May, Circuit Paul Ricard hosted another exceptional edition of the KENNOL Grand Prix de France Historique. In a unique atmosphere blending nostalgia, spectacle and closeness with the public, the 2026 edition delivered on all its promises. With nearly 225 cars entered, including more than 60 historic Formula 1 cars, the event offered a true journey through time. From single-seaters of the 1970s to racing cars from the early 2000s, every generation was represented, giving the public the chance to see these cars, which shaped the history of the World Championship, back in action on track.
The Fast & Famous sessions on Saturday and Sunday were two of the weekend's highlights, featuring demonstrations by post-1986 Formula 1 cars. A new generation of drivers, alongside names etched into the legend of French and international motorsport such as Jean Alesi, René Arnoux and Alain Prost, took the wheel of period single-seaters in front of an enthralled crowd.
The presence of the sons of legends added an intergenerational dimension to this very special moment: Nicolas Prost, Loïc Depailler, Giuliano Alesi and Mathias Lauda each took turns at the wheel of Formula 1 cars from that era.
Among the most memorable moments, Esteban Ocon and Isack Hadjar put on a remarkable show, engaging in a careful "battle" that was particularly appreciated by the crowd. Pierre Gasly also stirred deep emotion during Sunday's session, taking the wheel of the iconic RS10 with its turbo engine: the very car in which Jean-Pierre Jabouille, father of his childhood friend, secured Renault's first-ever victory in 1979.
The 2026 edition gave a place of honour to the Ligier brand, celebrating 50 years in Formula 1. Spectators were able to enjoy a historical exhibition tracing the marque's glorious Formula 1 journey, as well as its active presence today in endurance disciplines. Olivier Panis and Jacques Laffite embodied on track the continuity of a legacy that remains a source of pride for French motorsport.
Making its very first appearance at the KENNOL Grand Prix de France Historique, the RedBull Racing team captivated the crowds. Around the tent where the RedBull RB7 was on display, spectators could be seen utterly mesmerised by the sheer concentration of technology before them. The public also had the opportunity to watch it run during two special sessions, with Isack Hadjar behind the wheel of the 2011 World Championship-winning car on Saturday, and David Coulthard on Sunday.
Beyond the racing, it is the paddock atmosphere that makes the KENNOL Grand Prix de France Historique truly unique. Drivers could be seen catching up with one another, fans meeting their idols during signing sessions, and spectators standing in awe before cars that have made motorsport history.
Through the richness of its line-ups, the quality of its guests and the diversity of its programme, the event reaffirms its central role in celebrating and preserving the heritage of motorsport.
COMPETITION SCHEDULE 