After a successful inaugural season, the Asian Geely Formula
International Open (AGF) is accelerating efforts to create more
racing opportunities for local drivers.
AGF, sanctioned by the International Automobile Association
(FIA) and Federation of China Autosports (FASC), was the first
domestic formula racing event. This season races will be held in
Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu and Zhuhai from June to November, three
more than last year.
To make the event more competitive and appealing, each stage
will include three timed and untimed practices and one warm-up
before the race, along with other off-track activities.
While Formula One and A1 Grand Prix are raising interest in
motor sport in China, there are few opportunities to develop local
driving talent.
"Due to the lack of formula cars, China has to rely on major
tournaments overseas. China's racing car industry still lags behind
the world's best. It is unlikely a Chinese driver will compete in
F1 for the time being," Yan Jianchang, director of FASC, said at a
press conference in Beijing on Monday.
"The successful design of Geely formula cars sets a solid base
for China to host high-level formula events and there are chances
for more local drivers to get involved."
The cars, co-designed by Geely and UK racing company Van-Diemen,
mark the first time that a domestic car producer has been involved
in racing car design. The organizing committee has promised to do
more work on improving the cars and narrowing the gap with F1 or A1
vehicles.
Another plan for 2007 is to set up three or four training
sessions for driving hopefuls.
"We hope to improve the overall level of China's formula racing
drivers rather than those in the top group," said Li Jianquan,
secretary of the organizing committee, at the press conference.
"AGF is a good platform to enhance driving skills and will help
develop Chinese formula drivers. We also welcome overseas drivers
to take part and help develop the sport in China."
(China Daily March 21, 2007)