A1 Grand Prix lodges order

The order from Lola for 50 chassis, along with that of 58 engines 3.4-litre V8 engines previously lodged with Zytek Engineering, makes this almost certainly the biggest single racing car order in the history of the sport.

The initial plan was to build 30 of the single-seaters, but the organisers claim that it was increased because of the number of countries wishing to acquire national seats in the championship.

"This is certainly one of the most significant contracts that Lola has ever been involved with and we are ready to deliver," said Lola's MD Rupert Mainwaring. "We have been involved from the very concept stage of A1 Grand Prix and feel confident that the close relationship that we have with Sheikh Maktoum and his organisation will prosper for many years to come."

The series founder, His Highness Sheikh Maktoum Hasher Maktoum Al Maktoum, is expecting to be able to announce new entries to add to those countries already signed up: "We created a concept, a sound business model and a dream. This has today turned into a reality and has surpassed all of my expectations.

"The business model is proving itself as we already have 13 countries signed up to participate in the first World Cup of Motorsport and are negotiating with a further 19."