An unexpected and extremely unfortunate announcement has shaken the Formula E and the Motorsport world, as Citroën Racing has announced the passing of Team Principal Cyril Blais.
Citroën Racing’s Managing Director Bath Paretta confirmed the news and expressed her pain for the announcement.“We are all so saddened to lose Cyril. Many of the team have known and worked with him for several years. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and colleagues throughout the paddock. Cyril believed so much in this team and we will respect his family’s wishes to honour him in the best way we can, by continuing to race in his memory with the exact dedication and passion he instilled in all of us.”
Formula E and Citroën lose a great personality with Blais’s passing
Blais had begun his Formula E career back in 2019, as he joined Mahindra serving as track engineer. In 2022, he switched to Team Venturi, and oversaw its following transformations in Maserati Racing and Citroën Racing.
Formula E CEO Jeff Dodds expressed his sympathy for the sudden loss sustained by Citroën Racing, announcing that Blais will be remembered in the upcoming Tokyo E-Prix.
“We are heartbroken by the loss of our colleague and friend, Cyril. Our heartfelt thoughts and condolences are with his family, loved ones and all those who knew him. Cyril’s passing is a devastating loss for his family, for MSG, Citroën Racing, and for our entire Formula E community. We have lost an extraordinary colleague, and someone many of us were proud to call a friend.”
“The entire Formula E paddock is supporting one another through this incredibly difficult period. To honour his immense contribution to the sport, the Citroën Racing Formula E Team and the wider Formula E community will pay tribute to Cyril’s memory and incredible legacy during this weekend’s Tokyo E-Prix.”
An experienced engineer
Blais’s motorsport career had begun back in Formula 3, where he had the chance to work with Manor Motorsport and Arden. During those early years, he had the chance to work for the first time with driver Maximilian Günther. Later on, he will reunite with the German to secure several race wins as a Maserati driver.
Following two successful seasons as Lead Engineer, Blais had been promoted to Team Principal in 2024. At that time, Stoffel Vandoorne marked the team’s first success following his appointment. Blais maintained his role under the new partnership with Citroën. New-entry for the team Nick Cassidy taking the team’s first win in Mexico City, immediately demonstrating his successfulness.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem as well paid his respects to the career and personality behind the French electric racing team.
“The entire motorsport community is deeply saddened by this tragic news. Cyril will be greatly missed by all who were fortunate to know and work with him. He was dedicated to our sport, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues, competitors and friends across the paddock. His passion, determination and belief in his team were evident in all he did. Beyond his achievements on track, Cyril will be remembered for the integrity he brought to our sport. He made a lasting impression on everyone who worked alongside him, and his absence will be felt deeply. On behalf of myself and the FIA, I extend heartfelt condolences to Cyril’s family, friends and colleagues. Our thoughts are with them during this incredibly difficult time.“
