Pioneering and Innovation: GP2

The new F3000 replacement series and F1 feeder formula took the plaudits this season for creating close and entertaining racing throughout the season.

The inaugural champion, Nico Rosberg, has earned himself a place on the Formula One grid with Williams after his stellar season. Runner-up Heikki Kovalainen has become Renault's third driver for next season.

Rosberg was there to accept the award on behalf of the series.

"It was a really great season and I enjoyed myself a lot," said Rosberg. "The award is for innovation and having the second race with the top eight on the grid turned around made for fantastic TV."

Rosberg said he learnt a lot from the inaugural season, which will stand him in good shape for his first year of Formula One.

"It was a fantastic training ground," he added. "Set up wise you can learn a lot, the tyres are the same and the power is similar, and the same competition is incredible. It is perfect train ground and I was pleased to take part in the championship.

"Testing in the F1 car has been really great and I think we've got a good chance of being really successful."