Posted on Friday 4 April 2008
The concept of the nation-based A1GP was original founded by Dubai’s Sheikh Maktoum Hasher back in 2004 but after receiving FIA regulation one year later the series lost many of its links with the Middle East. A1GP now plans a return to the region with the series seeking to hold a race locally within the next three years.
The information comes from A1GP CEO Pete da Silva, who told delegates at a motorsport business forum in Bahrain this week that the Middle East and Asia are crucial to the future growth of the series. Representing 22 nations, including emerging motorsport markets such as China, India, Indonesia, Lebanon and Pakistan, da Silva highlighted the role A1GP plays in developing motorsport talent in emerging markets.
A1GP has proven so popular in these new markets that organizers are prepping the launch of a new A2GP feeder series in a partnership with Ferrari. The series, currently under development, will provide regional exposure for young, prospective drivers who hope to eventually enter the A1 arena.