Caterham F1 Team has announced a multi-year agreement with Visa as the team's Hospitality and Experiential Marketing Partner,” the team announced in a press release. “The partnership will see the two brands collaborate on a series of innovative hospitality and marketing programmes that takes Visa cardholders into the heart of Formula One's fastest developing team.

Tony Fernandes, Team Principal, Caterham F1 Team, said, ‘This is another major milestone for our team as it aligns us with one of the world's most famous, trusted brands and gives us an opportunity to create some exciting new projects for our fans and Visa's customers. The growth of our commercial partnership portfolio reflects our development as a team on track and it is a sign of our increasing strength that we have been able to attract a brand as prestigious as Visa.

Stuart Tomlinson, Country Manager, Malaysia, Visa said, ‘Visa is pleased to sign on as a key partner of Caterham F1 Team. With Tan Sri Tony’s business savvy and flair, we believe the team will be a dynamic force to be reckoned with in the near future, and we are excited to be part of this. With this partnership, Visa looks forward to bringing our decades of experience in creating customer hospitality, loyalty and experiential programs for cardholders.’ Visa joins an illustrious list of Caterham F1 Team partners including GE, Dell, Intel, Renault and AirAsia.”

ormula 1 fans have been told to brace themselves for an unpredictable start to the season - with the competitiveness of the grid likely to throw up some big surprises in the early part of the campaign.

With pre-season testing suggesting little separates the teams this year – with some outfits appearing quicker in single-lap trim while others excel over race distances – plus Pirelli's aggressive tyres making strategy difficult, leading figures reckon the start of the year will be thrilling.

Lotus team principal Eric Boullier told AUTOSPORT: "Yes, it is going to be a freaky one! Qualifying in Melbourne and the first races are going to be unpredictable.

Pirelli's motorsport director Paul Hembery predicts that engineers will get on top of understanding the tyres pretty quickly – but thinks the first few races could throw up some shocks.

"Martin Whitmarsh said we needed to give the teams a challenge, and if that happens then we will get some excitement – at least in the early season," he told AUTOSPORT.

"I think you have to remember the engineers in these teams are the best in the world and, while at the start of the year that may create, like we had at the start of the year, some challenges, as the year progresses they will work out the best way to manage the situation and it will equalise a little bit."

What more can we hope for??

Visit www.autosport.com for the full story. By Jonathan Noble

The BBC will be providing live coverage of 10 races in the 2012 Formula 1 season across all its platforms.

For the remainder, there will be extended highlights on television and full live coverage on radio and online, including audio commentary.

The extended highlights programmes will be on BBC One, although start times and duration will depend on race location.

Races in the Far Eastern time zone will have highlights broadcast in the early afternoon, with those in Europe in the early evening (generally of 90 minutes' duration), and races in the Americas later that night. The BBC's coverage of all the live races will be as extensive as ever, with all the action on and off the track across TV, radio, online, red button and mobile. For the races that are not live on BBC One, there will be live commentary on Radio 5 Live and the BBC Sport website.

In detail, the coverage will be as follows:

For all live races, F1 fans will be able to customise their viewing experience through the BBC's multi-platform offering with options such as: split-screen action; a live leaderboard; in-car cameras; choice of commentary; live online streaming; live text; interactive forums; circuit guides; and blogs.

- Qualifying sessions and races live on BBC One and BBC One HD

- One-hour evening highlights programme on BBC Three and BBC HD

- All races and qualifying sessions that start before 1000 to have full repeat on terrestrial TV later in the day

Other races

- Extended highlights on BBC One and BBC One HD, in the early evening for European time zone races and early afternoon for early morning races

- Qualifying: Extended highlights on BBC One and BBC One HD, Saturday evenings for European time zone races and early afternoon for early morning races

(Hungarian Grand Prix qualifying and highlights will be on BBC Two and BBC HD)

Following the resounding success of last year's inaugural edition, the Grand Prix du Canada announced today the return of the gala "The Grand Evening". The exclusive social event, which will once again this year serve as the inaugural soirée of the 2011 Grand Prix du Canada, will be held on Thursday, June 9 at Windsor Station's Salle des Pas Perdus. Once again, the event will be co-chaired by Mr. Bernard Ecclestone and the Honourable Michael Fortier. All the proceeds will jointly benefit the CHU Sainte Justine and Hôpital du Sacré-Coeur de Montréal Foundations.

"Last year, we wanted to celebrate the return of Formula 1 to Montréal in a spectacular fashion and, through the introduction of our grand new tradition, we can say mission accomplished. The success of the first gala "The Grand Evening" was a great source of celebration for us and of course for the two foundations that we support," said François Dumontier, President of Octane Racing Group and President of the Grand Prix du Canada. "With the second edition coming up, we are now beginning what we can call a tradition, a very gratifying tradition. We have high hopes of once again making this event THE social gathering of the beginning of summer; an event that brings together the Montréal community along with prestigious guests of honour who are attending the Grand Prix du Canada, with all proceeds going to local charities." 

Mr. Dumontier was also pleased with the fact that Mr. Bernard "Bernie" Ecclestone, President and CEO of Formula One Management, and the Honourable Michael Fortier, Vice-Chairman of RBC Capital Markets, had agreed to return as honorary co-chair of the event. "I sincerely want to thank them for accepting our invitation. Their support will greatly contribute to making this year's grand evening another great success." 

"I am honoured that François Dumontier and his team asked me to co-chair this year again The Grand Evening", has declared Mr. Bernard Ecclestone, President of Formula One Management. "This gala has proved last year that it was the very best way to open the weekend celebrations while supporting great causes. I will be glad to share this wonderful evening with the Formula 1 family and the Montréal business community." 

"In June 2010, the Montréal Business Community responded with enthusiasm to the invitation sent by the Grand Prix of Canada, Bernie Ecclestone and myself. Once again this year, I invite all our leaders and all the generous Montrealers to come forward and celebrate with us in the heart of Montréal the 32nd edition of the most important sporting event in Canada, and by the same token give their support to two very significant hospital foundations by attending the gala. Together, let's make the second edition of The Grand Evening another resounding success," commented the Honourable Michael Fortier, Vice-Chairman of RBC Capital Markets and honorary co-chair of the event. 

The 2010 edition of "The Grand Evening", was held just a few hours before Formula 1's first laps on Friday at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, was organized in Montréal by Octane Racing Group and entirely produced locally. More than 850 guests, including drivers and management of the 12 teams competing in the Formula 1 World Championship attended among those F1 drivers Sebastian Vettel, Lewis Hamilton, Mark Webber, Nico Rosberg, Jarno Trulli, Pedro de la Rosa, Sébastien Buemi, Nick Heidfeld, Nico Hulkenberg, and Heikki Kovalainen. 

"The Grand Evening" is an official activity of the 2011 Grand Prix du Canada and is presented in collaboration with Mercedes-Benz Canada. Tickets for the 6 pm cocktail, the 7:30 pm dinner and the evening are currently being offered at $1,000 each. Table for 10 will cost $10,000.

CONTACT F1 CORPORATE TODAY FOR VIP TICKETS TO THE GRAND PRIX PARTY ON THURSDAY 9th JUNE 2011.

Email: vip@f1corporate.com

Tel:+44 (0)208 432 4020

We are pleased to announce a new Partnership with Australia based agency Firstclass Travel in Sydney. www.Firstclass.com.au will be hosting guests on behalf of F1Corporate for the Australian Grand Prix 2011 and beyond.

FirstClass and F1Corporate are also offering a unique experience in Monte Carlo this year where guests can experience both the Formula One in Barcelona and Monaco within 2 weekends. Package details:

Silver Spirit Monaco Grand Prix Cruise May 2011

Formula One fans can look forward to watching television coverage in High Definition this year after Formula One Management announced that all broadcasters will receive an HD feed for 2011.

From the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix in March, coverage of all 20 rounds - including all practice sessions and support events - will be originated in HD, with the international feed then offered throughout the world at a data rate of 42 Megabits/second.

A number of major broadcasters have already confirmed that they plan to show 2011 races in HD, with many other channels expected to follow suit before the season gets underway.

The news follows extensive research, development and investment by FOM to ensure the best possible HD offering for its global TV audience, which is currently in excess of 500 million unique viewers annually.

Be our guest to see Formula One live from above the pits... The Paddock Club is probably the only way to get closer to the sport other than viewing it in HD on Tv!

As one of the official Formula One Paddock Club™ ticket agencies appointed for the 2011 FIA Formula One World Championship™ season, we are pleased to be able to offer you the ability to make individual or group bookings at selected Formula One™ Grand Prix events through the “Golden Card” division.

All Formula One Paddock Club™ tickets offered or sold by us through Golden Card are subject to availability and to the 2011 Formula One Paddock Club™ Standard Terms and Conditions which can be can be posted to you upon request.

For general information regarding the Formula One Paddock Club™ please view the official website at http://www.formulaonepaddockclub.com

We look forward to taking care of you and your guests in the exclusive luxury of the Formula One Paddock Club™

If you would like to order tickets or if you need further information

please use the following e-mail address: vip@f1corporate.com 

Please aktivate Javascript! Bitte aktivieren sie Javascript!

  or +44 (0)208 432 4020

Included in the price of a Formula One Paddock Club^TM Ticket are:

• Access to the circuit and the Formula One Paddock Club^TM
• Full Breakfast (No breakfast is included at the Monaco GP)
• Open bar with Champagne
• Gourmet luncheon with fine wines
• Pit lane walkabout(s) at specially allotted times
• Access to Support Race Paddock
• Official Programme and ear plugs
• Entertainments
• Seat in the Golden Card area incl. TV monitoring or at the Golden Card table in the Club Suite, the hospitality area designed for individuals and small groups in a shared environment
• Prime viewing facilities:

  - From the terrace or lounge: Belgium, Italy, Valencia, Japan and Abu Dhabi

  - From the roof: Malaysia, Turkey and China

  - Grandstand seat: At all other Grand Prix

• Private parking (one car parking pass for every three guests, Monaco - one car parking pass for every five guests, additional parking passes can be purchased on request and subject to availability)

Formula One Paddock Club Price List 2011

Grand Prix	Date	2 Days Saturday & Sunday	3 Days Friday, Saturday & Sunday	Prices subject to VAT
Sakhir Bahrain	13 March	US $ 4.200,-	US $ 4.600,-	N/A
Kuala Lumpur Malaysia	10 April	US $ 4.200,-	US $ 4.600,-	N/A
Shanghai China	17 April	US $ 4.200,-	US $ 4.600,-	N/A
Istanbul Turkey	8 May	€ 2.450,-	€ 2.800,-	N/A
Catalunya Spain	22 May	€ 2.450,-	€ 2.800,-	+ 18%
Monte-Carlo Monaco	29 May	€ 3.750,-	Not available	+ 19,6%
Montréal Canada	12 June	US $ 4.785,-	US $ 5.240,-	VAT included
Valencia Europe	26 June	€ 2.450,-	€ 2.800,-	+ 18%
Silverstone Great Britain	10 July	€ 2.450,-	€ 2.800,-	+ 20%
Nürburgring * Germany	24 July	€ 2.450,-	€ 2.800,-	*
Nürburgring ** Germany	24 July	€ 2.916,-	€ 3.332,-	**
Budapest Hungary	31 July	€ 2.450,-	€ 2.800,-	+ 25%
Spa Francorchamps Belgium	28 August	€ 2.450,-	€ 2.800,-	+ 21%
Monza Italy	11 September	€ 2.450,-	€ 2.800,-	+ 20%
Suzuka Japan	09 October	US $ 4.200,-	US $ 4.600,-	N/A
Yeongam Korea	16 October	US $ 4.200,-	US $ 4.600,-	N/A
Greater Noida India	30 October	US $ 4.200,-	US $ 4.600,-	TBC
Yas Marina Circuit Abu Dhabi	13 November	US $ 4.600,-	US $ 5.000,-	N/A

TBC = To be confirmed

* German Grand Prix: Price for registered companies and agencies only.

Please note: The customer is liable for VAT.

** German Grand Prix: Price for private customers including VAT.

Abu Dhabi set to have iconic new lifestyle venue: ‘The Wing’

Abu Dhabi, 28 July 2009:

A stunning new addition to the skyline of Abu Dhabi is taking shape on the Corniche. Named ‘The Wing’, this unique venue is destined to become an iconic social and architectural fixture for residents and visitors in the Capital.

The front wing of a Formula One racing car inspires the design of this multi-functional venue - a combination of restaurant, lounge, boutique, auditorium, meeting and function facilities. Throughout, the flexible design and layout of the building allows uninterrupted panoramic views of the Corniche.

Developed by Aldar Properties PJSC and operated by Abu Dhabi Motorsports Management, The Wing will link the city to Yas Marina Circuit, the venue for the first Formula 1™ Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix held from October 30 to November 1 this year.

The Wing showcases the glamour and sophistication of motorsports and offers an unprecedented range of facilities for different market groups. The restaurant offers diners the opportunity to enjoy some of Abu Dhabi’s finest food from morning through nightfall in a modern, rich setting. Couples and groups can relax and mingle in the contemporary surroundings of The Lounge. Private and Corporate guests can host events in the state-ofthe-art auditorium equipped with cutting edge technology or customise use of the flexible meeting spaces. Motorsports fans and the general public alike can purchase bespoke luxury products and exclusive Yas Marina Circuit merchandise in The Boutique. From an intimate meal for two through to the International launch of a new product, The Wing will deliver an experience equal to its iconic location.

Richard Cregan, Abu Dhabi Motorsports Management CEO said, "We believe The Wing will become the social hub of Abu Dhabi as well as a sought-after destination for regional and international visitors. As with Yas Marina Circuit, our aspiration is to create a unique venue with a special ambiance that provides an unforgettable experience."

"Through the use of these world-class facilities, and events like the Formula 1™ Grand Prix, we will contribute to Abu Dhabi’s vision of becoming a destination of choice for business, culture, and leisure".

The Wing is scheduled to officially launch at the end of 2009.

Legends of British motor sport salute record Silverstone crowds - record breaking 310,000-strong crowd enjoys "phenomenal" British Grand Prix

20,000 fans stay behind to see British legends at Grand Prix Party British drivers Jenson Button and Lewis Hamilton joined a host of British motor sport legends and current F1 drivers on Sunday evening at Silverstone's post-race Grand Prix Party, the circuit's traditional finale to the FORMULA 1 SANTANDER BRITISH GRAND PRIX.

The Party, free to all ticket holders, took place after the last race of the day on a purpose built giant stage in the centre of the circuit. A record-equalling 20,000 fans stayed behind at Silverstone to continue the post- race celebrations. Jenson Button on stage at the Silverstone Grand Prix Party Courtesy of Jakob Ebrey Photography TV broadcaster Tony Jardine hosted the evening's entertainment and was joined on stage by a number of current F1 drivers and legends of British motor sport. All of the drivers received a heroes welcome, but the biggest cheer of the day was saved for Jenson Button, who leads the World Championship after finishing sixth in this year's FORMULA 1 SANTANDER BRITISH GRAND PRIX.

Speaking after the race about Silverstone and the future of the British Grand Prix, Button commented, "We've all spoken without saying a word. The last couple of races have not had many people, so to come here and see all these spectators - we don't need to say anything. This Grand Prix is the most spectacular in F1. Monaco is special, but it is nothing like this. There has to be a GP here next year."

In addition to the British drivers, Jardine was joined on stage by British Grand Prix winner Sebastian Vettel and fellow F1 drivers Mark Webber, Rubens Barichello, Nico Rosberg, Kazuki Nakajima and Nelson Piquet. British team bosses Ross Brawn and Christian Horner also joined their drivers on stage. Showing their support for Silverstone, at the Northamptonshire circuit's final Grand Prix under the existing contract with Formula One Management, there were also appearances from a host of British motor sport legends, including former World Champions Sir Stirling Moss, Sir Jackie Stewart and Damon Hill OBE, as well as former British Grand Prix winners Johnny Herbert and David Coulthard.

British drivers Martin Brundle and Derek Warwick also joined the celebrations, along with Coulthard and Brundle's fellow BBC commentators Eddie Jordan and Jake Humphrey. Silverstone attracted record crowds over the three days, including 85,000 on Friday, 105,000 on Saturday and a capacity crowd of 120,000 on the Sunday. The three day cumulative crowd of 310,000 was the highest at Silverstone in 15 years.

Speaking after the event Richard Phillips, Managing Director of Silverstone Circuits Limited, said, "The support for Silverstone and the British Grand Prix over the past three days - from fans, drivers and teams - has been overwhelming. The fans have a real affinity with Silverstone and the drivers love coming here. It's a fantastic circuit. You just have to look at the attendance figures over the past three days, and Sebastian Vettel's reaction to winning here, to see that Silverstone is a very special place."

Commenting on the fans' reaction after his first British Grand Prix win, the Red Bull Racing driver had said, "I regret a little bit that I am not an Englishman. I saw the crowd cheering at the end and I wanted to wave at them."

Phillips added, "We have the best fans in the world and I sincerely hope to see them back at Silverstone next year. There have been growing concerns over Donington Park's ability to host the British Grand Prix, in 2010 and beyond, but comments over the weekend from Mr Ecclestone and the FIA have been reassuring. The support from fans over this weekend has undoubtedly had an impact on the way they are viewing the future of the British Grand Prix and Silverstone. We've said all along that Silverstone is ready to step in if Donington's plans fall over, and that remains the case. Silverstone has never looked so good. This year's British Grand Prix was phenomenal, one of the best run and well supported events I have ever worked on, and we're hopeful that we'll see everyone back here next year."

A number of high profile guests and VIPs were making the most of the glamorous occasion, including footballers Eric Cantona, Michael Ballack and Michael Carrick, England Manager Fabio Capello, Olympic cyclists Sir Chris Hoy and Victoria Pendleton, The Duchess of York Sarah Ferguson, cricketer Kevin Pietersen, Jade Jagger, DJ Chris Moyles, rock band Kasabian, socialite Tamara Beckwith and TV presenter Vernon Kay.

credits: www.motorsport.com , www.silverstone.co.uk

Tourism & attraction - The shining capital of the UAE

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE and the largest of the seven emirates has seen great transformation in the last few years. Despite its humble and quiet stature, the emirate has now launched itself into the international tourism market with its wealth of quality infrastructure and breathtaking offerings.

The bustling city lies on a T-shaped island in the Persian Gulf, with an estimated population of one million people – 80% of which are from the expatriate community. The city prides itself in being the largest and richest of the seven emirates, while still holding on to its rich Arabian culture and history.

Steps in history

Excavations reveal that Abu Dhabi was settled as far back as the third millennium BC, with its early history paying homage to the nomadic herding and fishing pattern that is typical of the whole UAE region. The emirates’ origins can be traced back to the late 18th century with the important tribal confederation of the Bani Yas, which was also in control of Dubai. It wasn’t until the 19th century that both emirates were separated and became independent from each other.

Camel herding, date and vegetable production in the inland oases of Al Ain and Liwa, as well as the fishing and pearl diving industries were the major driving forces of the emirates’ economy well into the mid-20th century. The city was mostly inhabited during the summer months, with most dwellings being constructed of palm fronds, known as barasti. Families from a wealthier background had the luxury of residing in mud huts.

Oil came into the picture in 1939, when HH Sheikh Shakbut Bin-Sultan Al Nahyan granted petroleum concessions – but it wasn’t until 1958 that any oil was found. To begin with, oil did not have a great impact on the emirate’s economy, and grand development was put on hold until HH Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan encouraged the use of oil money for development after his accession to the throne in 1966. After the British withdrew in 1968, HH Sheikh Zayed became the main driving force behind the formation of the UAE, and following the UAE’s independence in 1971, oil wealth flowed through the area. It wasn’t long before palm fronds and mud-brick huts were replaced by towering buildings, banks, boutiques and shopping malls.

Formula One races to Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi recently secured the right and privilege to host a Formula One Grand Prix from 2009. The franchise has been awarded to the emirate for a renewable seven-year term.

The track will be built on Yas Island, a man-made island of around 6,000 acres that is part of a sophisticated tourism development, including three golf courses, a polo field and a Ferrari theme park.

The track will be 5.6 kilometres long and will be divided into a three-kilometre permanent circuit for the public, and a 2.6 kilometre city layout, exclusively for Formula One racing.

Business - The Emirate today The current boom in the tourism industry is propelling Abu Dhabi into the international scene, with various projects elevating the emirate into a Singaporean-style status in the region. Many visitors from around the world are being attracted to this active emirate, with its 1,300-kilometre coastline, and nearly $50 billion worth of investments in new hotels, good infrastructure and massive commercial, industrial and residential developments.

The secret of the emirate lies in its abundance in tourism offerings – pristine beaches, extensive desert wilderness, sporting attractions and luxurious shopping venues. The government of Abu Dhabi has placed tourism as a top priority, and seen as a good opportunity to boost the economic diversification and growth of the emirate, while at the same time enhancing its international reputation.

Back in 2004 the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA) was set up in a bid to expand and support the emirate’s tourism industry. Since then, Abu Dhabi has witnessed a flood of new projects and developments, as well as heightened interest from around the world, reflected through high hotel occupancy rates. International specialist firm, Deloitte and Touche recently published an independent survey revealing that the emirate topped the world in occupancy rates in 2005 with 84.4% - beating the cities of Paris, Singapore and Sydney.

Key developments

Abu Dhabi International Airport is currently under the first phase of its $254 million expansion, which is due to be completed in 2010. Once completed, the new airport will have a futuristic new satellite terminal and a second runway, as well as an increased capacity from 4.3 million passengers to 7.2 million within five years of its launch.

The airport includes 52 contact gates, luxurious passenger lounges and everyone’s favourite duty-free options. Another feature is the latest in luggage processing technology, a hotel for transit passengers for a more comfortable wait, and a new air traffic control tower overseeing all incoming and outgoing aircraft.

One of the most ambitious projects in the emirates’ history is Saadiyat Island, a 27-square kilometre natural island 500 metres from Abu Dhabi. Development began in 2006 and is expected to continue until 2018.

Estimated to be half the size of Bermuda, Saadiyat Island will be one of the Middle East’s largest natural island developments. Boasting 30 kilometres of waterfront and various eco-features, the island will have six distinct districts ranging from a cultural area to marinas.

Features include 19 kilometres of beaches, two golf courses, resorts, three marinas with a 1,000 vessel capacity, over 8,000 private villas, over 38,000 apartments and a total of eight architectural landmarks including museums, a concert hall, art gallery and other major cultural centres. One such cultural centre is the construction of the world-famous Guggenheim Museum, designed by world-famous architect Frank Gehry, the original architect of the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao. Abu Dhabi’s Guggenheim Museum will be 30,000 square metres, making it the largest of all Guggenheim museums worldwide. Scheduled for completion within the next five years, the museum will own its own collection of contemporary art, as well as exhibit works from the Guggenheim Foundation’s global collection.  

The later start time and increased interest in Formula One gave impressive audiences in the UK for the rain soaked Malaysian Grand Prix this weekend. BBC1 drew an average audience of 4.3 million with a peak of 5.4 million during the shortened race. This was nearly three times the audience compared with last year according to IFM Sports Marketing Surveys, the sports market research company.

Nigel Geach – Director, IFM Sports Marketing Surveys says “Interest in Formula One is very high at the moment, with exciting races, changing grids and in the last race inclement weather. To achieve increases of over 300% in mature markets for the first two races of the season is exceptional and reinforces the strength of Formula One across the World."

26^th March 2009 - Abu Dhabi: The organisers of the United Arab Emirate’s first Formula One race, the 2009 Formula 1™ Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, announced today that tickets for the much anticipated event will go on sale nationally and globally from 10.00AM on Monday 30 March.

The announcement was marked by the unveiling of a national and international marketing campaign that asks the question “where will you be on November 1?” - the race day of the three day F1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix event. The Grand Prix will take place at the spectacular new Yas Marina Circuit over three days from 30 October – 1 November 2009. It will be the final race of the 2009 Formula One season and potentially the World Championship decider.

The announcement was made by His Excellency Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Motorsports Management (ADMM) the organisers of the Grand Prix.  He was joined for the unveiling of the ticket marketing campaign by His Excellency Ahmed Al Sayegh, Chairman of Aldar Properties, the developers of the Yas Marina Circuit; His Excellency Mohammed Ben Sulayem, Vice President of the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) and President of the Automobile and Touring Club of the United Arab Emirates (ATCUAE) and Peter Baumgartner, Vice President of Marketing of Etihad Airways, the Title Sponsors of the Grand Prix.

Speaking at the event, His Excellency Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak said: “This is a significant milestone on the path to our inaugural Grand Prix.  We are in the home straight of what will ultimately be a three year journey.  We are therefore very much looking forward to welcoming the Formula One family, international race fans and most importantly the UAE public to the event - and indeed to the very special Yas Marina Circuit.”

He added: “I think that people can be very proud that the UAE will not only welcome Formula One but that we will do so in a way that sets a new global benchmark for motor sport.”

It was announced that there are two types of ticket available for purchase: Grandstand tickets and the corporate hospitality orientated “Paddock Club”.  ADMM revealed that it expects a heavy early demand for the limited seats available after receiving thousands of inquiries locally and internationally.  People who wish to attend are advised to book early. A 20% discount is available for Grandstand bookings made in the first few weeks that the tickets go on sale.

Yas Marina Circuit, located on Yas Island, is one of the most sophisticated and technically advanced tracks in the world.  It offers a stunning backdrop to the on-track action.  The circuit features the only hotel in the world to have a F1 track running through it: re-entry to the track from the pit lane via a tunnel; an innovative run-off area which channels drivers who over-shoot the racing line under the grandstand itself; and an exclusive Marina adjoined to the compound.

Innovative circuit design will also offer most grandstand spectators at least 30% views of the track, a feature unrivalled in Formula One, and all seating will be covered - again a feature unique to the Yas Marina Circuit. Further coverage of the race action will be provided by giant screens around the track, ensuring viewers miss none of the spell-binding twists and turns.

The F1™ Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is a three day event, with the Formula One cars and the supporting race categories on track each day. To provide maximum choice to spectators and to help ensure the great atmosphere that only full grandstands can provide, ADMM is offering three-day tickets (Friday, Saturday, Sunday) and two-day tickets (Saturday, Sunday).

These tickets are transferable between different people on different days, meaning that friends and families can share the experience with each other while also sharing the cost.  

Lewis Hamilton, McLaren Mercedes Driver and Current FIA Formula 1™ World Champion said of the track: “I love going to new circuits – and the new track in Abu Dhabi looks like becoming one of the very best on the Formula 1 calendar. I’ve only looked at images of Yas Marina Circuit so far, but what’s really impressed me is the variety of the track. It has a bit of everything – fast corners and long straights, tight and twisting corners and even a marina. It’s the kind of challenge we drivers love and I can’t wait to get out there and try out the track for real. As the final race of the 2009 season, we couldn’t have asked for a better venue for the conclusion to our year.”

Tadashi Yamashina has confessed that the global credit crunch did indeed cause 'some doubt' over Toyota's continued participation in Formula 1 – and he praised chief sponsor Panasonic for enabling the Japanese outfit to remain on the starting grid.

Following rival manufacturer Honda's shock and sudden withdrawal from competition in December, many in the paddock surmised that it would only be a matter of time before Toyota followed suit, particularly in the light of the company's comparatively modest results in the top flight in relation to its significant investment since its entry back in 2002.

In 123 grand prix starts, the Cologne-based concern has yet to register its maiden victory – and, what's more, has never even looked like doing so. Yamashina-san has now admitted that in the wake of Honda's departure, Toyota was on the cusp of pulling out as well – until his determination, the foundation of the unprecedented Formula One Teams' Association (FOTA) and Panasonic's renewed support convinced the world's largest car maker otherwise.

“We have competed on the F1 circuit over the past seven years, which I believe has helped to invigorate our company and contributed to the sales of our products,” the Toyota Motorsport GmbH chairman told Tokyo daily newspaper the Yomiuri Shimbun. “I stressed again and again in the company's executive board meetings there was no way we should pull out, although we have to drastically cut our costs.

“Obviously our negative business reports did cause some doubt, so I was extremely happy that Panasonic decided to renew its contract with us even though they also had some financial trouble. Their understanding of what we are doing allowed us to keep racing.

“An association of F1 executives (FOTA) has been set up under the leadership of Ferrari chairman Luca di Montezemolo, and all the teams have worked very hard to drastically cut their expenditure.”

Toyota top brass deliberated right up until just before Christmas before making its final decision and re-affirming its commitment to the sport – arguably the world's most expensive and glamorous marketing tool. Yamashina-san also explained that F1's new eco-friendly drive is of increasing relevance to its road car technology, providing another argument in favour of staying put.

As it enters its eighth season on the grand prix grid this year, it has been repeated on many occasions that Toyota has to finally win a race in order to justify its ongoing presence, and Yamashina-san is confident that with a driver line-up of Jarno Trulli and Timo Glock on-board and the encouraging testing form of the new TF109, that day will at last arrive.

“We must win,” the 57-year-old urged. “I'm sure of our team's potential to win a grand prix title after watching the final test on Thursday. Our team is definitely better than that of last year, whose best performance was a runner-up finish (in the Hungarian Grand Prix).”

Formula One chiefs ruled on Tuesday that as of this season the coveted drivers' championship title will be awarded to the driver who wins the most races, and not he who collects most points.

The dramatic move is part of reforms aimed at giving a new lease of life to the troubled sport that has been badly hit on the one hand by the world financial crisis but also by processional races with little overtaking.

Under the new rules if two or more drivers finish the season with the same number of race wins, the title will be awarded to the driver with the most points, the allocation of points being based on the current 10, 8, 6 etc. system.

The decision was one of several made at a meeting of the World Motor Sport Council in Paris on Tuesday, a meeting called to "help reduce costs and increase interest in the FIA Formula One World Championship" according to a statement released by the FIA, world motor sport's governing body.

"The WMSC accepted the proposal from Formula One Management to award the drivers’ championship to the driver who has won the most races during the season," added the statement.

"If two or more drivers finish the season with the same number of wins, the title will be awarded to the driver with the most points, the allocation of points being based on the current 10, 8, 6 etc. system.

"The rest of the standings, from second to last place, will be decided by the current points system. There is no provision to award medals for first, second or third place. The Constructors’ Championship is unaffected.

"The WMSC rejected the alternative proposal from the Formula One Teams' Association to change the points awarded to drivers finishing in first, second and third place to 12, 9 and 7 points respectively."

Had the new rules been in place in 2008, Britain's Lewis Hamilton would have lost the title to runner-up Brazilian Felipe Massa, whom he pipped on the final bend of the final race of the season.

This year's Formula 1 championships comrpises 17 races starting with the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne on March 29 and ending with the new Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on November 1.

The FIA also announced it would publish the weights of the cars after qualifying for each Grand Prix.

That could give a clue to which teams are using the optional kinetic energy recovery system (Kers).

Bahrain International Circuit and Gulf Air today launched the 2009 Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix campaign as the countdown to the biggest international sporting and social occasion in the region gets underway.

With just 55 days remaining before the sixth running of the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix the BIC and the Kingdom of Bahrain’s national carrier jointly announced the objective to stage the biggest and best round of the FIA Formula One World Championship in the Kingdom under the headline “Where the Heart is”.

Martin Whitaker, Chief Executive Officer at BIC, said: “The countdown to our sixth hosting of the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix is now well and truly underway. We stand just 55 days away from the biggest sporting and social event of the year and event that in TV exposure terms is second only to the FIFA World Cup and Olympic Games. Over the years fans of Formula One have come to expect so much more from Bahrain International Circuit and this year we promise to make it the most entertaining, biggest and best yet.”

This year will see more action and excitement than ever before as new rules and regulations have been introduced to transform the spectacle of the FIA Formula One World Championship. Earlier this year the Kingdom got a preview of what is to come this season as Ferrari, Toyota and BMW headed to the award-winning desert circuit to test the new Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS) and put their 2009 cars through their paces. During their visit fans got the chance to meet Kimi Raikkonen at an autograph session in Seef Mall’s West Wing, and for those attending the open day the chance to meet Toyota’s Timo Glock aboard BIC’s dhow in the F1 Village Vending Area.

With thousands attending the February sessions, many more are expected to visit this year’s 2009 Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix to witness the gripping on-track competition as well as enjoy the entertainment in the F1 Village Vending Area.

Abdul Rahman Qarata, Corporate Communications Director at BIC, said: “During the 2008 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix we witnessed almost 100,000 spectators attending the three-day race weekend. This year, we are hoping to go beyond this record to see a greater attendance as a thrilling season lies ahead. We know how much everyone loves the Grand Prix, particularly families and friends, and there will be much more to look forward to as we continue to focus on making this a weekend filled with entertainment.”

Away from the track there will be plenty of added entertainment to look forward to. The line-up for race weekend will include three groups of five acrobats who go by the name of ‘Limpopo-Zambezi’. Hailing from Mozambique, Kenya and Ghana these high-energy acrobats will provide visitors with a heart-lifting performance not to be missed. Cambridge-based Bijoumiyo who were last seen during the Grand Racing Weekend will be finding their way back to Bahrain International Circuit for Formula One weekend to put the ‘F’ into ‘funk’. Additionally, there will be roaming acts making their way round the Formula One Village Vending Area, buskers in the tunnels, stilt-walkers, balloon-makers, acrobats, musicians, a professional face painter, children’s’ play area and so much more. To add to the excitement, this year will see two stages instead of one to look out for.

Last year’s successful introduction of the ‘Friday ticket’ has promoted the addition of a new offer available to fans who are only able to visit the track on Friday. This new initiative is called the ‘roaming ticket’; the idea being that it helps those who have to work on Saturday and Sunday get the Formula One experience.

“With the BD65 roaming ticket spectators have the freedom to enter each and every grandstand on Friday and get different views of the circuit”, said Whitaker.

Bahrain will host the fourth round of this year’s FIA Formula One World Championship. The opening round will be in Melbourne, Australia on March 29 and the championship runs through 17 events in 16 countries before culminating in the final race in Abu Dhabi on November 1. As the world’s biggest annual sporting series, Formula One attracts a global audience of more than 550 million viewers and takes place on every continent except Africa and Antarctica.

On track there will be a host of races on the bill supporting the Formula One action including the final round of the GP2 Asia Series. GP2 is the ‘feeder’ category to Formula One introduced in 2005, from which all three champions have leapt straight into the top flight of Formula One. Inaugural champion Nico Rosberg scored points on his Formula One debut in Bahrain with Williams in 2006, while his successor Lewis Hamilton managed to win the driver’s championship last season. Having seen Timo Glock step out of the GP2 season into the Toyota Formula One team, Bahrain’s very own resident driver Sebastien Buemi will be stepping into the world of Formula One for Toro Rosso this year.

GP2 Asia is a sister championship to the European-based GP2 Series and is where Bahrain’s Hamad Al Fardan races for GFH iSport International team. Local spectators got their first chance to see Hamad’s home-grown talent racing on home soil for the first time this January as part of the Grand Racing Weekend. He will be hoping to be in the thick of the action at the final round which supports Grand Prix. It will also feature another event which partners up with the GP2 Asia - Speedcar. Speedcars are closely related to NASCAR racers in America but feature a host of stars from the world of international motor sport led by former Formula One drivers Jean Alesi, Johnny Herbert, Gianni Morbidelli and Vitantonio Liuzzi.

There will also be plenty of excitement for fans of regional racing talent as Bahrain’s own Chevrolet Supercars ME Championship puts on an exhibition race for a preview of what is to come this season when the championship starts in November. Organised and promoted by the BIC, the Chevrolet Championship will be contested over several rounds with the final round supporting the Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in 2010.

Last season saw Bahrain’s Fahad Al Musalam win the championship against fierce competition from Saudi Arabia racer Abdulaziz Al Yaeesh, Bahrain’s Shaikh Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, Dubai-based Tarek Elgammal and many more. Al Musalam managed to pick up the opportunity of a life time as he won a test drive in the world’s biggest touring car series, the Australian V8 Supercar Championship Series, with the Garry Rogers Motorsport team.

The final international category on the line-up of events is the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup now in its 12th season as the official support category to the Formula One World Championship. The field of more than 30 Porsche 911 GT3 Cup cars makes a spectacular and colourful sight and provides real door-to-door racing at ever corner among evenly matched supercars. With a celebrity guest driver joining the well-known regulars of the series at most rounds, the Porsches deliver real entertainment in Bahrain every year.

As Bahrain International Circuit gets ready to host the Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix for the sixth time it also looks back on five successful years of achievements and awards. Since its inauguration in 2004, the BIC has received many prestigious accolades including the ‘Best Organised Grand Prix’ in 2004, ‘Best Advertising Campaign’ for the Almoayyed Tower in 2006, and now the only Grand Prix circuit to be an ‘FIA Centre of Excellence’.

This year Bahrain International Circuit announced its partnership with the United Nations Environment Programme having signed a memorandum of understanding which will see the circuit take on environmental initiatives as part of its “BIC Go Green” campaign.

Abdul Rahman Qarata said: “The goal of the campaign is to carry out various initiatives that will be beneficial not only for the circuit but for the entire kingdom. We also hope that as the first circuit in the world to take this step we will be able to spread awareness nationally and regionally as we join forces with the UNEP to tackle important global issues. This includes focusing on waste management, recycling and, more importantly, reducing our carbon footprint.”

This year will also see Bahrain International Circuit partner up once again with Gulf Air to bring the kingdom and the region its sixth Formula One race.

Björn Näf, Chief Executive Officer of Gulf Air, said: "As one of the principle Ambassadors for the Kingdom of Bahrain we are delighted to again be at the forefront when the eyes of the world are focussed on Bahrain. Our sponsorship started in 2004 and since then we have been instrumental in the success of the event and the economic benefits it has brought to the Bahrain economy. The race has also become a firm favourite amongst fans from all over the world and we are proud to have brought so many first time visitors to Bahrain to watch the race and enjoy the many other world class facilities Bahrain has to offer. We look forward to welcoming fans from all over the world onto our aircraft where they can be sure of the highest levels of hospitality and comfort."

The 2009 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix takes place on April 24 – 26 and will see plenty of action and entertainment for families, friends, adults and children. Tickets are already on sale through the BIC Call Centre on 17450000, through the website www.bahraingp.com, the Seef Mall Outlet Stand and will see a new stand open at City Centre soon. Throughout the coming months the BIC will continue to feed more and more information in to the market place of events that are happening at the race. Entertainment is the key message with the BIC becoming the focal point for a great weekend of family entertainment both on and off the track. ‘Where the Heart is’ is the overall campaign theme and message for the 2009 Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix and the Bahrain International Circuit continues to be the Home of Motorsport in the Middle East.

This season the rules in Formula One have changed dramatically, affecting how the cars look and drive. Get in the know with our quick run down of the latest racing innovations.

2009 introduces the largest array of technical developments and new regulations by governing body, the FIA, in the last ten years. Whilst undoubtedly posing challenges for the Formula One constructors and drivers, the plans look to increase overtaking and excitement throughout the season. The sporting regulations have been brought in by the FIA to facilitate cost-cutting measures and increase reliability.

KERS

One of the major additions to the Formula One technology portfolio is the optional use of a Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS). KERS recovers the heat energy generated from braking and stores it for use as a boost of up to 80 horsepower for up to 6.67 seconds per lap. The driver has control over this and can operate the system via a boost button on the steering wheel.

The Engine

Drivers will be limited to eight engines per season in 2009, plus an additional four engines available for testing. In order to increase reliability, the engines are restricted to 18,000 rpm (from 19,000 in 2008). Once a driver has used his eight-engine allocation for the season, any further engine change will incur a 10-place grid penalty. If the engine change has been made after qualifying, the driver must start the race from the back of the grid.

Testing

From 2009 onwards, on-track testing is not allowed during the race season and is limited to 15,000km.

Fuel

2008 regulations outline that 5.75% by weight of bio-oxygenate must be incorporated in Formula One fuel. Shell and Ferrari have been working together over the past year to develop a new formulation that meets the regulation but also provides maximum performance for the season.

Race fuel load will still be decided in qualifying and the optimum blend of fuel is vital. Fuel blends need to deliver the maximum power to the car whilst maintaining efficiency and drivability.

Tyres

After 10 seasons using grooved tyres, Formula One returns to slick tyres in a bid to focus more heavily on mechanical, rather than aerodynamic, grip. The use of slick tyres will increase grip by about 20%, increasing overall performance, but reducing outright speed through faster corners. Drivers will still have two dry tyre compounds and will still have to use both during a race.

Aerodynamics

The Formula One cars in 2009 will all look much cleaner and simpler, thanks to a dramatic reduction in the use of winglets, barge boards, flicks and fins. Downforce will be much lower and will therefore put more pressure on the tyres to deliver mechanical, rather than aerodynamic grip.

The front wing has been lowered and widened to just 75mm off the floor and 1800mm wide - as wide as the car itself. Drivers will be allowed to make alterations to the angle of the front wing twice per lap with a maximum of 6 degrees of adjustment.

The rear wing has also been modified by the new regulations. The top of the wing is now in line with the top of the engine cover (150mm higher) and narrower by 250mm to 750mm overall.

The FIA is intent of increasing the spectacle of the sport and the changes in the design of the cars has been made to increase overtaking, reduce the role of aerodynamics in the cars' performance and keep lap times in check. The revisions are designed to allow drivers to follow the driver in front more closely without suffering turbulence to such an extent.

The chances of Honda's F1 team making the grid at Melbourne seems 50 to 50 right now. At least that's what has been suggested by British newspaper The Daily Telegraph, whose reporters have quoted an unnamed source within Honda. According to that source, the increase in optimist percentage came as a result of a late bid from a “third party.

According to the aforementioned source, the company interested in buying Honda's F1 programme is “reputable, able to bring long-term financial stability, with a brand image known throughout the world. Formula One would do well to have them on board.”

Several rumors started to emerge concerning the identity of that third party joining Ross Brawn and Nicky Fry in their attempt to save the team. In an article shown on f1complete.com site, the rescuer might be British billionaire Sir Richard Branson, owner of travel, entertainment and lifestyle brand Virgin.

Neither Branson, nor a representative from Virgin have yet confirmed the news. If their bid is legitimate and real, the company should proceed to the buyout immediately, as the season opener in Australia is less than 40 days away. The Brackley-based team should also find an engine supplier in time, with Mercedes-Benz already agreeing to a potential partnership if the situation requires it.

Another rumor about a third party being interested in the buyout involved newly-based USF1 team. It was believed that the all-American team would be interested in profiting from an already established base at Brackley, rather than look for a new one in Spain. However, part-owner Ken Anderson denied the rumors delicately earlier this week.

By taking part in Friday practice for the 2006 Turkish Grand Prix, Vettel became the youngest Formula One driver to drive at a Grand Prix meeting, at 19 years and 53 days. On Sunday September 30, 2007, during the Japanese Grand Prix Vettel became the youngest driver to lead a Formula One race. (Mike Thackwell remains the youngest driver to compete in a championship Grand Prix race; Nico Rosberg the youngest to drive an F1 car in private testing.) He also became the quickest driver to get a fine in F1, being fined $1,000 nine seconds into his career, after speeding in the pitlane. He went on to become the sixth youngest driver to start a Grand Prix and the youngest driver to score points in a Grand Prix. During qualifying for the 2008 Italian Grand Prix, Vettel became the youngest Formula One driver to win pole position. He wen

Lewis Hamilton helped McLaren set the fastest time of the 2009 cars during the final day of this week's test at Jerez in Spain on Friday. Although Sebastian Bourdais was guaranteed the top spot as his Scuderia Toro Rosso outfit were alone in running their 2008 car, it was left to Hamilton and Renault's Fernando Alonso to lead the way with the new cars. Hamilton's best lap of one minute 19.632 seconds, set with his McLaren fitted with a 2008 rear wing, was just more than two tenths of a second clear of Alonso, who appeared to eek some more pace from the R29 than it has shown capable of earlier in the week. Alonso seemed relieved to have delivered some of his new car's potential, with the team having had a fairly frustrating early experience with the new car. "After doing so many laps with the car yesterday, we concentrated more on set-up work today to get a better understanding of the car and make it easier to drive," said the Spaniard. "Overall, we have to be very happy as we managed to do lots of laps and the car responded well to the set-up changes we made, so I think we've found some good solutions.