The 800-year old Diaoyutai State Guest House once the vacation home to Chinese emperors, today witnessed a momentous occasion in Chinese sporting history as it played host to the launch of A1 Team China, the country's first-ever motorsport team.

Celebrating the official launch of A1 Team China, the championship's largest team representing 1.3 billion people, high government officials, foreign diplomats and Chinese celebrities joined A1 Team China President Mr Liu Yu in the Fangfeiyuan Hall of the Diaoyutai State Guest House as he unveiled the A1 Grand Prix race car.

Speaking of his country's involvement in the new championship Mr Liu Yu said, 'A1 Grand Prix is a brand new concept for the world of motorsport emerging from the revolutionary thinking of His Highness Sheikh Maktoum and spreading throughout the world. A1 Grand Prix belongs to the whole world. As a member of this international family, A1 Team China will strive to realise the A1 dream and create a glorious championship.'

Welcoming A1 Team China to the championship, A1 Grand Prix Founder, President and Chairman Sheikh Maktoum commented, 'It is a great honour to hand over the Chinese car to 1.3 billion potential fans. I am sure the Chinese people and industry will be backing their national team and I wish them the best of luck in achieving their high aspirations.' He continued, 'I would like to extend my thanks to the Chinese government and people for the warm hospitality they have given me throughout my stay here.'

A1 Grand Prix CEO and Executive Director Tony Teixeira spoke of China's significance to the championship, 'In announcing the Chinese team, A1 Grand Prix has achieved a momentous milestone and we are delighted to announce that China will be host to the final round of A1 Grand Prix's first championship.