Former racer PJ Fallon, who will run the commercial side of A1 Team Ireland was in ebullient mood when he spoke to Pitpass editor, Chris Balfe, following the official announcement that Ireland is the twentieth country to sign up to the exciting new series, joining the USA, Australia, India, Brazil, South Africa and its 'neighbour from the Irish Sea, Britain.

Editor Balfe began by asking if it was an individual or the ubiquitous 'consortium' that had bought the rights to the Irish franchise.

"It's a family that is behind the purchase," says Fallon, "however, the bid is headed up by Mark Kershaw, who will act as Franchise Principal. He's joined by (former Jordan and Jaguar Marketing Director) Mark Gallagher, who will act as Team Principal.

"Mark Gallagher and myself commenced discussions about this around three months ago," he reveals. "We then found a very exciting investor and everything was finalised last week. Consequently, today we were finally able to announce that we are part of the A1 Grand Prix scene for the forthcoming inaugural season."

Right from the outset, Balfe feels that the 'ghost' of Eddie Jordan needs to be laid to rest, he asks Fallon whether the former F1 team boss will be involved in the Irish A1 operation.

"He has offered his help and support," says the Irishman, "but he has no involvement whatsoever with the purchase or running of the team."

Having talked to people closely involved with A1, it appears that it is the countries that do not have a major motor racing heritage, such as China and India, that are experiencing the most interest from potential sponsors, while countries such as Britain and the USA, which have many drivers, teams and race series', are having to work that much harder.

With no disrespect, Balfe asks Fallon if he feels the Irish A1 Team will find it relatively easy to find sponsors. "Well, I hope your assumptions are totally correct," laughs the Irishman. "Saying that however, I can understand when it comes to the UK, because the UK is the home of motorsport, nearly all the Formula One teams are based there, same with GP2 and most other series. So therefore, there are a lot of people looking for a slice of the same (sponsorship) cake. Therefore, as you say, in countries like China and Korea, which are relatively un-tapped, they will probably be quite successful.

"We are aiming to contact a lot of our major companies," he continues, "companies that are exporting worldwide. So far we haven't contacted any but we aim to do that in the very near future.

Jordan enjoyed massive support due to its nationality its Irish heritage. The fact that the team will no longer exist from the end of the 2005 season - indeed, in some people's eyes the team no longer exists - will that be beneficial for A1 Team Ireland?

"Absolutely," replies Fallon without hesitation. "This is a truly Irish team. It is based in Dublin and it will run in our country's colours.

"Jordan enjoyed tremendous support, and had a great fan base, so naturally we want to pick up that fan base and give them something to come out and support, and to follow their team around the world. Wherever you go in the world, and whatever sport, you will find the Irish supporting their teams... we aim to build on that, we want them to come out, fill the grandstands and give the team as much support as possible."