A1GP LOOKS TO MIDDLE EAST FOR FUTURE GROWTH

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).