The opening round of the 2005 A1 Grand Prix series will be at Brands Hatch in the UK. The announcement was made today at the Autosport International Exhibition where A1 Grand Prix President, Sheikh Maktoum was accompanied by Jonathan Palmer, MotorSport Vision Chief Executive, and also by John Surtees, Chairman of the British A1 Grand Prix Team.

Sheikh Maktoum said: "The UK plays a very important part in the heart of international motorsport and has a great heritage, so in many ways it is fitting that the first ever A1 race is held there. If you look at where we are with A1 it is obvious the UK has provided us with so much in terms of value. The fans are very knowledgeable and it is an honour and privilege to race at a venue with such a rich history. I very much hope that the 18th September will be an exciting day for everyone in the UK from all walks of life and all nationalities."

The race, which will take place at the Kent venue on 18th September 2005, will be one of the highlights of the Brands Hatch racing calendar this year, and a delighted Jonathan Palmer said: "We are thrilled to have the first ever event of this exciting new championship at Brands Hatch. MotorSport Vision is totally committed to revitalising its circuits and returning Brands Hatch to the past glory days is a priority. It is a fabulous drivers’ circuit, steeped in history and has a fantastic atmosphere with the best viewing in Britain.

"Our three year agreement to host A1 Grand Prix now provides racing fans with a world class car racing event at Brands Hatch to complement our World Superbike Championship round, which is recognised as one of the best events in the championship, drawing a huge crowd. We are looking forward to working with Sheikh Maktoum to create a truly outstanding entertainment event.

"I admire the innovation and enormous commitment of A1 GP together with the totally new concept of capitalising on the huge global interest in competition between nations, and providing a driving force for the development of motor race driving talent in many different countries, some of which would not normally get the chance to showcase their drivers."