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A1GP looks to the Middle East for future growth |
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Friday, 04 April 2008 |
 A1GP World Cup of Motorsport will return to the Middle East with the series
seeking to hold a race in the region within the next three years revealed series
CEO, Pete da Silva when addressing delegates at the inaugural Motor Sport
Business Forum Middle East held at the Bahrain International Circuit this
week.
Da Silva took the opportunity to speak of the importance of the Middle East and
Asia to the future growth of the series while also discussing A1GP's development
since its inception in 2004. Representing 22 nations, including emerging
motorsport markets such as China, India, Indonesia, Lebanon and Pakistan, da
Silva highlighted the unique role the series was able to play in developing
motorsport talent in emerging markets, providing an international platform for
new drivers to compete on a level playing field.
The introduction of the
A2GP feeder series, announced last year as part of the series partnership with
Ferrari, has been designed to further aid the growth of motorsport in regions
such as the Middle East. The series, currently under development, will provide
valuable regional exposure for young, prospective drivers, competing for the
ultimate prize of a place in their national A1GP team.
'The Middle East
is an important region which is rapidly expanding its motorsport facilities and
role within the industry. This week's forum has highlighted its hunger both for
top level series to visit the region, as well as the need for the lower tiers
which can be used to grow the talent and expand the opportunities for young
drivers in the region. With A1GP and, in time, A2GP we're well placed to service
this demand and aim to continue our commitment to developing our sport in
emerging markets', commented Pete da Silva.
The Motor Sport Business
Forum Middle East featured key figures from the motorsport industry including
Ron Dennis, McLaren Group Chairman and CEO, and David Richards, Chairman of
Prodrive and Aston Martin giving keynote speeches on each of the two days. Other
speakers were the team principals of Force India, Red Bull Racing and the Honda
Racing F1 Team, Martin Whitaker CEO Bahrain International Circuit; Talal al
Zain, Mumtalakat; Shaik Mohammed bin Isa Al Khalifa and Pau Serracanta i Marcet,
Dorna Sports (Moto GP).
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