Al Ain Raceway today formally announced that it will host this year’s Rotax MAX Challenge Grand Finals – the world’s most prestigious single karting event, to be held between 19th and 26th November 2011

The annual event, now in its 12th year will be the largest karting event to date with 264 participants from 60 different nations across five continents taking part, including seven competitors in Team UAE.  Al Ain Raceway was selected to host this event for the second time based on the venue suitability, high standards and facilities, as well as its proven professionalism and organisation.

Speaking at a press conference held at Yas Marina Circuit, Al Ain Raceway chairman, HE Khaled Bin Shaiban Al Mehairi said, “This year’s Grand Finals are being held under the patronage of HH Sheikh Sultan Bin Hamdan Al Nahyan.  We are also supported by our sponsors Yas Marina Circuit, STRATA and Tawazun.  Together we share a passion to raise the profile of this great sport.”

HE Khaled Bin Shaiban Al Mehairi continued, “Ask any Formula One driver how he started his career and 99% of them will tell you it all began with karting.  Karting is the purest form of racing.  The experience that one gains from racing karts is invaluable, not only control of the vehicle but also race craft and sportsmanship.  These are the attributes that mould young drivers into the international superstars we see today.  Here in the UAE we are keen to join the ranks of other countries in building the sport from the bottom up.”

“In the space of two years, we have established Yas Marina Circuit as one of the leading motorsport facilities in the world, this has helped to facilitate promoting Abu Dhabi as a destination,” said Richard Cregan, CEO of Abu Dhabi Motorsport Management.  “As the proud host of the 2011 F1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, it is equally fitting that Yas Marina Circuit sponsor the Rotax MAX Challenge Grand Finals. Our focus is to help facilitate and build a sustainable motorsports culture here in the UAE.”