Grapevine: A1 Grand Prix to be Launched Next Month

The new A1 Grand Prix series, a new Dubai-based motorsport venture with events worldwide, will be launched in Dubai on March 30, organisers said.

The championship, which will use cars built by Lola in Britain and powered by 3.5 litre Langford engines, will involve a minimum of 24 countries. Last month organisers placed an order with Lola for 30 identical cars, the prototype of which will be revealed at the launch.

The cars will have no electronic controls, with the emphasis on the driver's abilities, and the championship will have between nine and 18 races in a season. Organisers said the series will offer up to $2 million in prize money.

Teams could recoup their costs if they finished fifth in every race.

The organisers said they are now finalising agreements with circuits in various countries able to host a round of the championship, and at the same time they are also concluding details of the TV package that will be offered.

The idea has been developed by Sheikh Maktoum Hasher Maktoum Al Maktoum of the ruling royal family of Dubai, with backing from the South African businessman Brian Menell and entrepreneur Antonio Teixeira.