Grapevine: Minardi to Take F1 to China

China, who will host their first Grand Prix in 2004, will get its first taste of Formula One earlier than planned after the Minardi team announced they will be running their two-seater cars on December 8.

'Thunder in China', as the event is called, will provide the high-profile centrepiece of launch activities for the new Goldenport Motor Park facility, situated near the Beijing International Airport.

The team said there will be extensive promotion prior to the event, and revealed they are expecting a crowd of between 20,000 and 50,000 for the official opening of the Goldenport Motor Park.

The programme is supported by the Federation of Automobile Sports of the People's Republic of China, China International Trade Promotion, the Beijing Central Government, Beijing media, and the Malaysian Ambassador to China.

"The possibility of staging this ground-breaking event in China has come about as the result of the enthusiasm and commitment of BSA Motorsports management, and the experience and adaptability of KL Minardi F1x2 personnel," said Minardi boss Paul Stoddart.

"Our aim from the outset of the programme has been to bring F1 closer to the fans, in order that they come to understand and share the passion we have for the sport. We are both honoured and proud to be able to bring the Formula One two-seater experience to the people of China, as we have to motor racing fans in many other countries."