The Formula E community is mourning the passing of Citroën Racing Formula E Team Principal Cyril Blais after Monaco Sports Group (MSG), the operator of the Citroën Racing Formula E Team, confirmed his death on Monday (20 July).
Tributes have since been paid by colleagues, manufacturers and motorsport’s governing body, all recognising Blais’ contribution to the championship and the impact he had on those who worked alongside him.
Beth Paretta, Managing Director of the Citroën Racing Formula E Team, said the team would honour Blais’ memory by continuing to race with the same commitment and passion he inspired throughout the organisation.
“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 CEO Jeff Dodds described Blais as both a colleague and a friend, saying his passing was a devastating loss for the championship and everyone who had the privilege of working with him.
“We are heartbroken by the loss of our colleague and friend, Cyril, and 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.”
Dodds also confirmed that the Citroën Racing Formula E Team and the wider Formula E paddock will pay tribute to Blais and his contribution to the sport during this weekend’s Tokyo E-Prix.
Citroën CEO Xavier Chardon and Stellantis Motorsport Senior Vice President Olivier Jansonnie said Blais had played a significant role in the Formula E programme since the beginning of the partnership between MSG and Citroën Racing, describing his passing as a deeply painful loss for everyone connected with the project.
Meanwhile, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem paid tribute to Blais’ character and commitment to motorsport, saying he had earned the respect and admiration of colleagues, competitors and friends throughout the paddock.
“The entire motorsport community is deeply saddened by this tragic news, and 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.”
Monaco Sports Group, Citroën, Stellantis Motorsport, Formula E and the FIA have all extended their deepest condolences to Blais’ family, friends and loved ones.
No further information has been released, with all parties asking that the family’s privacy and wishes be respected during this difficult time.
