The two kilometre-long Jean Behra Circuit was built on the site of the current Circuit de Nevers Magny-Cours between 1960 and 1961. In 1971 the circuit was extended for the first time, with the 3.9 kilometer layout's characteristics laying the foundation for the present version.

Towards the end of the eighties the circuit underwent a comprehensive modernization programme, with its official opening being on 29 April 1989. Two years later Formula 1 visited the circuit situated in the Département Nièvre for the first time, with Britain's Nigel Mansell winning the French Grand Prix attended by over 100,000 fans.