31/03/2006
NEWS STORY
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The Dutch fans have proved the most loyal to their team in the A1 Grand Prix series and this has been rewarded with a race on home turf as the opener for the 2006/07 season will be at the Zandvoort seaside circuit.
After a 21 year absence, Grand Prix racing will return to Zandvoort on 30 September – 1 October 2006, kicking off A1 Grand Prix's second season. The event, organised by A1 Grand Prix, in close co-operation with Circuit Park Zandvoort and A1 Team Netherlands, will be the first time A1 Grand Prix has raced in the Netherlands.
A1 Team Netherlands' seat holder, Jan Lammers, who was born in Zandvoort and began his racing career at the circuit under the guidance of the late Rob Slotemaker, is excited to secure a home race for himself and his team. For Lammers A1 Grand Prix is the best thing that has ever happened to motorsport. 'Unlike all other motor sports, A1 Grand Prix is not solely about the individual driver but all about team effort and the honour of representing your country. It's also a real family event and gives all the fans, young and old, the best in entertainment and value for money.'
Hans Ernst, director of Circuit Park Zandvoort, welcomed the opportunity to host an A1 Grand Prix event. 'It is very special that A1 Grand Prix will come to Zandvoort. We expect it to attract huge crowds and it's also a big boost for the Zandvoort economy in a period where the regular tourist season has ended. The race will attract millions of television viewers from all over the world and it is excellent promotion for the track, Zandvoort and the Netherlands.'
A1 Grand Prix Chairman, Sheikh Maktoum is delighted that A1 Grand Prix will race in the Netherlands: 'The enthusiasm of the Dutch fans is the main reason to come to Zandvoort. We have had the pleasure of seeing them at almost every race this year and they encapsulate the patriotic spirit of A1 Grand Prix. They are not easily overlooked in their bright orange outfits. At one race, I even saw two of them with huge inflatable Orange clogs for hats.'
The atmosphere will be electric next October as tens of thousands of fans, most dressed in orange, find their way to Zandvoort. The event is being eagerly anticipated by both fans and motorsport experts with tickets going on sale at 12.00 GMT on Monday 3 April. Furthermore, there will be free gifts for all those who buy their weekend ticket before 1 June 2006.