After an exciting performance in the first stage of the A1 Grand Prix, A1 China Team is expected to get even quicker in the coming 11 races.

A total of 25 A1 racing cars thrilled spectators and television viewers worldwide as they took to the historic Brands Hatch circuit in the UK for the first A1 Grand Prix of Nations on September 25.

A1 Team Brazil took first place, securing 10 points and a US$300,000 share of the prize fund. Australia finished second and Mexico third.

China's A1 car, driven by 20-year-old Jiang Tengyi and tipped as the underdog in the motor racing event, roared in 12th.

In an action-packed race, nations jostled for position -- each trying to earn their crucial first points in the opening round.

"I am coming here to learn from other drivers and I did not think of such a result," said Jiang.

"A 12th-place finish does not necessarily mean I am the 12th best among the 25 drivers. Some better drivers made unfortunate mistakes in the race.

"Other drivers have more experience. A 12th place is really encouraging ahead of the next races.

"It proved that in world level competitions, Chinese drivers have the ability to catch up with the top drivers," Jiang added.

The second stage of the championship takes place on October 9 in Germany.

Dubbed the "World Cup of Motorsports," this championship pits drivers against each other for the pride of their countries, meaning spectators will see national flags printed on the cars and hear national anthems played on the podium.

All the cars have the same engine, chassis, body and tires, meaning the driver will be one of the key determinants in any victory.

With an unexpected result in the first stage, confidence-boosted Liu Yu, CEO of A1 Grand Prix Co Ltd China, believes A1 China Team is not only going to be a guinea pig.

"Before the first race, the organizers, experts and some fans made comments about China's poor level in motor racing events. Some teams even believed that we would be a hindrance on the track during the competition because of the slow speed.

"Now, such a result, though not a glory for a country, means our driver did not lose face for the country. And I believe the organizers will not scoff at the China team any more."

To highlight the importance of China, the final stage of the A1 series will take place in Shanghai in April next year.

With F1 drawing huge crowds to the Shanghai International Circuit, officials from the China Autosports Federation (FASC) and A1 Grand Prix are optimistic that A1 will also be a huge hit.

"The series will take place in the autumn and winter when F1 is idle. And there are no other serious motor sports events taking place from December to March. It is a chance for A1 to fill in this period and offer the fans another big motor sports party," said Shi Tianshu, president of the FASC.

The last stage of the F1 season will roar into Shanghai this month.

(China Daily October 6, 2005)