Jun.20 (GMM) The northwestern city Rouen, scene of the French grand prix at the Rouen-Les-Essarts circuit in the 50s and 60s, has emerged as another contender to take Magny-Cours' spot on the formula one calendar of the near future.

It is reported that, at the scene of this weekend's race, a representative of the bidding party put forward Rouen's name as an alternative venue for the French grand prix, which is likely to move away from the isolated Magny-Cours after 2008.

The media reports, however, met with a swift rebuke by the mayor's office, according to the French news agency AFP.

"The city of Rouen is not associated with this approach and so far there has been no request for (our) support," the mayor's office said.

It is also reported that the French motor sport federation, FFSA, is playing down the Rouen speculation.

Sports.fr claims that three Rouen locations are being considered: a street track, a port circuit, and a venue near the airport.

Paris and Le Mans have also been mentioned as possible alternative venues for the historic French grand prix.