Full coverage from each round of the international FIA sanctioned series, which pits identical single-seater cars against each other, will be broadcast exclusively live, with practice sessions, qualifying and the race itself.
Announcing the deal, Sky Sports managing director Vic Wakeling said: “We have been sold on the concept of a genuine test of driving skills which, of course, A1 Grand Prix is designed to provide - and we are delighted to be involved from the beginning.”
“It has the added attraction of providing us with more international sport - all live - throughout the winter months. With five dedicated sports channels on our unique digital service, we are in the business of supporting new ventures of this type.”
His Highness Sheikh Maktoum Hasher Maktoum Al Maktoum, the brainchild behind the series, said: “We are pleased and extremely proud to welcome Sky Sports on board as our first broadcast licensee. Sky’s innovative coverage and support will make A1 Grand Prix truly ’must see’ viewing in the United Kingdom.”
A1 Grand Prix is a brand new motor racing series that sees identical cars compete against each other in a true test of driving skill. Each team will be a franchise of A1 Grand Prix and the series will marry a business model with high-speed motorsport.
The series will be a World Cup of motorsport with up to 30 franchises available, limited to only one per country. Each national team franchise will be represented by a driver native to that country, thereby creating strong local support and presence for the team.
Races take place during the European winter in countries enjoying summer weather conditions such as Dubai, Bahrain, South Africa, Indonesia, Malaysia and South America.
The cars are identical single-seater A1 racing cars built by Lola and powered by a 520bhp A1 Grand Prix V8 Engine. The idea to provide a level playing field with no driver aids allowed.
Each three-day racing weekend will have the same format. Day one, a Friday, will be free practice, day two further practice followed by qualifying and day three a 15 to 20 minute sprint race which will determine the grid positions for the longer main event, lasting 50 to 60 minutes.
