Abu Dhabi to Host Formula 1(TM) Grand Prix in 2009

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (ots/PRNewswire) -

- Thousands Celebrate Ecclestone Confirmation at F1 Showcase on
Abu Dhabi Streets

In front of an elated crowd of tens of thousands of people,
Formula One(TM) Management today announced that Abu Dhabi, the
capital city of the United Arab Emirates, has secured the rights to
host a Formula 1(TM) Grand Prix from 2009.

On behalf of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan,
President of the United Arab Emirates and in the presence of His
Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Crown Prince of Abu
Dhabi, the announcement was made to the public who had gathered to
watch the sport's elite at the first-ever Abu Dhabi F1(TM) Festival -
featuring the largest gathering of current Formula One(TM) drivers
and cars ever assembled outside of a Grand Prix.

An official signing ceremony immediately followed at the stunning
Emirates Palace Hotel by the Chairman and CEO of Formula One(TM)
Management, Mr Bernie Eccelstone and the Chairman of the Abu Dhabi
Executive Affairs Authority (EAA), His Excellency Khaldoon Al
Mubarak, in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al
Nahyan, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi.

"A Formula 1(TM) Grand Prix is one of the world's most prestigious
sporting events, in the same category as an Olympic Games or World
Cup, and is unrivalled in terms of continuous global resonance. That
is why this new partnership is such an exciting one for Abu Dhabi and
the entire UAE," said His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al
Nahyan.

"For Abu Dhabi, and indeed the whole of the UAE, the opportunities
that are presented by increased international attention and
connectivity will deliver very real macroeconomic benefits."

Abu Dhabi, the capital, and largest of the seven Emirates that
make up the United Arab Emirates, will provide an idyllic location
for one the world's most popular sport. With over 200 natural
islands, offering some of the most untouched beaches in the region,
it is fast becoming one of the most sought out destinations in the
world.

Formula One(TM) Management CEO Bernie Ecclestone commented: "We
are delighted to welcome Abu Dhabi into the Formula One(TM) family,
and look forward to a long and successful partnership. Abu Dhabi's
hospitality, the genuine warmth of its people, and ever increasing
number of world class facilities, will ensure that its round of the
FIA Formula One(TM) World Championship is a wonderful addition to the
Formula One(TM) calendar."

The 2009 Formula 1(TM) Abu Dhabi Grand Prix track is being
constructed by ALDAR Properties, one of the UAE's leading property
development companies, and designed by renowned Formula 1TM circuit
designer Hermann Tilke.

Already under construction, the track is situated on a 2,550
hectare, natural leisure island, Yas Island, situated on the east
coast of Abu Dhabi and only minutes away from the expanding Abu Dhabi
International Airport.

"Abu Dhabi will bring its own unique culture, landscape and fans
to the F1(TM) experience," said HE Khaldoon Al Mubarak. "The track
design alone is an indication of the visionary approach we are taking
and I am confident we will deliver something truly special," he
added.

"Spectators will enjoy high speed action played out on three
distinct sections of the 5.6km circuit, including high speed areas
ending in tight overtaking turns, a street section and a marina
section. Each section of the circuit combines to deliver an
unrivalled viewing experience."

Note to Editors

- A five minute video news release of this event will be made
available to Reuters and SNTV for their clients to access after 16.00
GMT

- This is rights free material

ots Originaltext: Executive Affairs Authority of Abu Dhabi
Im Internet recherchierbar: http://www.presseportal.de

Contact:
Editorial Enquiries: For further information and images please visit
www.abudhabigp.com or contact: Alec Peck,
Alec.peck@hillandknowlton.com, +973-394-04490


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