Memo to BusinessF1 editor-in-chief Tom Rubython, who previously told Pitpass editor Chris Balfe, the A1 GP would do well to attract 20,000 fans to Brands Hatch for the inaugural race.

Well, the editor's wife left home at 09:15 and finally arrived at the historic Kent circuit just after 12:30. The trip normally takes 25 minutes.

'If you build it they will come', we were told in Field of Dreams, and this weekend race fans in their thousands have come to share Sheikh Maktoum's dream.

Make no mistake, there have been teething problems, and, unbelievably, there are still some out there who obviously expect A1 to be the new F1 straight. However, the fact is that for a (true) World Championship series that has been put together in just eighteen months, this is bloody remarkable.

The forthcoming Sprint race is 18 laps long, and there are no pit stops. The finishing order decides the (standing) grid order for the Feature race. As you will be aware, drivers have access to a 'power boost' button - a device which gives them up to extra 30bhp. In this event they will have up to 4 opportunities to use this device. It is entirely at their discretion when they use the button - however, timing is essential. Once the button is pushed, the device kicks in and only switches off once the drivers 'lifts off'.

Brazil is starting from pole position ahead of New Zealand, France, Australia, Britain, Switzerland, Mexico, Pakistan, Malaysia and Japan.

As you'd expect, in the 'Garden of England', the sun is shining.

The field comes back into view, entering clearways, they're away, heading towards Paddock Hill four abreast. There are a few 'wobbles' at the back but they all get away cleanly.

Brazil leads from France and New Zealand, and Netherlands' race is over almost before it begins.

At the end of lap 1, Brazil leads as Britain makes a move on Australia at Druids, but cannot make it stick.

Brazil leads France by 1.06s with New Zealand another 0.7s behind. Meanwhile South Africa pits, apparently having been involved in Netherlands' retirement.

Behind the top five, it's Mexico, Pakistan, Portugal, Switzerland, Ireland, USA and Japan.

After 4 laps, Russia is already a lap down, whilst China is hard on the heels of Austria.

After 6 laps, Brazil leads France by 1.7s, with New Zealand keeping a watching eye.

Strangely, despite the aerodynamics, despite the 'power boost' we're not witnessing any overtaking. That said, there are a couple of great battle, particularly Malaysia and Germany.

Ireland and Japan posts personal best laps as South Africa appears to have rejoined the race.