Site logo

Talking Point: A1 Grand Prix

NEWS STORY
11/12/2004

Since we first heard of the concept, Pitpass has been an enthusiastic supporter of A1 Grand Prix.

Back in February we reported comments that FIA president Max Mosley had made at a press luncheon regarding A1 Grand Prix, the Englishman expressing his delight at the concept, which he regarded as "beneficial" to both fans and young racers and adding that he hoped to see similar initiatives.

From the announcement in January, when Lola confirmed that it was to build the chassis for the forthcoming series, Pitpass has followed A1's progress with keen interest.

It's hard to believe that the series, which was only unveiled in March, has progressed so quickly, wiping the smile from quite a few faces within 'Planet Paddock'.

Thirteen countries have already signed up to the series, including China, Canada, Pakistan, Britain, Holland, South Africa and Australia, with Formula One legends John Surtees and Alan Jones, and Le Mans winner Jan Lammers, involved in the running of their respective teams.

What began as a young man's dream is fast becoming reality, as more and more people catch on to the idea of a World Cup of Motorsport.

It would be wrong to say that it has been easy, for even those involved at the very heart of the project have had their moments of doubt. Yet now, nine months before the first race, it's clear that A1 Grand Prix is go.

Personally speaking, there has been one lingering doubt, that of drivers. In its first all-important season it is vital that A1 Grand Prix attracts the public's imagination, and to do this it will need to produce great racing with serious drivers.

Naturally, countries such as Malaysia, Lebanon and Pakistan do not have access to the pool of 'talent' that Britain has, however it is vital that each country seeks out the best talent available and does not follow Formula One's example by recruiting 'pay drivers'. It would be heartbreaking to see A1 falter simply because those involved get the most vital ingredient wrong, for even though A1 is about country versus country, rather than 'personalities, it is crucial that the best available talent is put in the cockpit.

Thankfully, my initial fears appear to have been wrong, with some very interesting names being put forward. Although no drivers have yet been signed, names like Alan van der Merwe (South Africa) and former British F3 champion, Robbie Kerr, are being mentioned.

Therefore, in this Talking Point, I'd like to hear your suggestions regarding drivers, who do you want representing your country and why.

Furthermore, I'd like to hear what you think of the A1 concept, do you have any misgivings, are you worried that your country isn't involved yet.

Unlike Formula One, which shows a total disregard for its customers, the fans, those behind A1 take a keen interest in what the fans have to say, so share your thoughts.

So, what do you think about A1 Grand Prix?

Let's have your views.

LATEST NEWS

more news >

RELATED ARTICLES

LATEST IMAGES

galleries >

  • Pitpass.com latest F1/Formula 1 images
  • Pitpass.com latest F1/Formula 1 images
  • Pitpass.com latest F1/Formula 1 images
  • Pitpass.com latest F1/Formula 1 images
  • Pitpass.com latest F1/Formula 1 images
  • Pitpass.com latest F1/Formula 1 images
  • Pitpass.com latest F1/Formula 1 images
  • Pitpass.com latest F1/Formula 1 images
  • Pitpass.com latest F1/Formula 1 images
  • Pitpass.com latest F1/Formula 1 images
  • Pitpass.com latest F1/Formula 1 images
  • Pitpass.com latest F1/Formula 1 images
  • Pitpass.com latest F1/Formula 1 images
  • Pitpass.com latest F1/Formula 1 images
  • Pitpass.com latest F1/Formula 1 images
  • Pitpass.com latest F1/Formula 1 images
  • Pitpass.com latest F1/Formula 1 images
  • Pitpass.com latest F1/Formula 1 images
  • Pitpass.com latest F1/Formula 1 images
  • Pitpass.com latest F1/Formula 1 images
  • Pitpass.com latest F1/Formula 1 images
  • Pitpass.com latest F1/Formula 1 images
  • Pitpass.com latest F1/Formula 1 images
  • Pitpass.com latest F1/Formula 1 images
  • Pitpass.com latest F1/Formula 1 images
  • Pitpass.com latest F1/Formula 1 images
  • Pitpass.com latest F1/Formula 1 images
  • Pitpass.com latest F1/Formula 1 images
  • Pitpass.com latest F1/Formula 1 images
  • Pitpass.com latest F1/Formula 1 images

POST A COMMENT

or Register for a Pitpass ID to have your say

Please note that all posts are reactively moderated and must adhere to the site's posting rules and etiquette.

Post your comment

READERS COMMENTS

 

No comments posted as yet, would you like to be the first to have your say?

Share this page

X

Copyright © Pitpass 2002 - 2024. All rights reserved.

about us  |  advertise  |  contact  |  privacy & security  |  rss  |  terms