Brazilian Round Removed From A1GP Calendar

The A1GP Brazil, due to run on 18 March 2007, has been withdrawn from the World Cup of Motorsport's 2006/07 season calendar following a delay in securing a local terrestrial television partner to provide nation-wide coverage of the series.

A1GP representative and seat holder of A1 Team Brazil, Emerson Fittipaldi said: 'A1GP has decided to withdraw the Brazilian race from this season's calendar as it has taken longer than expected to secure free-to-air television coverage of the series within the market. A1 Team Brazil and A1GP have been working for some time to secure a wider-reaching television package to support our cable coverage in Brazil, ensuring that all Brazilian fans can follow the series that is conquering millions of followers around the world. We look forward to announcing final details shortly, after which, we will be able to ensure a successful race in Brazil and treat the Brazilian public to the full extent of the A1GP excitement.'

A1GP chief executive officer, Pete da Silva added: 'Every A1GP race is watched by an average of eight million viewers in more than 150 countries through our network of international television partners. Strong television coverage has proved vital when building consumer support for A1GP and ultimately drawing crowds to an event.

'Over the past months, A1GP has worked closely with the city of Rio de Janiero, the Jacaregagua circuit and the CBA to ensure the venue is fully equipped to host a round of our series. Both parties have been hugely supportive in this respect and I would like to take this opportunity to thank them for their work. However, as a new business, in its second season of racing, it is important that we put full consideration into every aspect of an event to ensure its viability and success. At this stage, without the support of a terrestrial television partner on board in advance of the event, A1GP has taken the decision to withdraw the Brazilian race from this season's calendar.'