grassshoppah
8th August 2000, 01:06 PM
A friend of Bernie Ecclestone has unveiled plans for a new racing series that will see cars decked out in the colours of major football teams.
If the idea is approved by the FIA, Premier 1 Grand Prix could kick off in 2002. There would be 12 races, 11 in Europe and one in South America, and fierce competition is assured because all the cars would have exactly the same specification.
The project has been funded by SMC Capital investments, which is part owned by Essex businessman Colin Sullivan, a good friend of F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone.
Competitors in the series will drive identical Dallara single-seaters with 4-litre Judd engines. There will be two races at every meeting, which will not clash with Formula 1 grands prix. Cars will use slick tyres and there will be no fuel stops.
Football teams will pay for cars to compete in their colours. The clubs invited to participate will be chosen on the basis of a six-year analysis of their performances.
If the idea is approved by the FIA, Premier 1 Grand Prix could kick off in 2002. There would be 12 races, 11 in Europe and one in South America, and fierce competition is assured because all the cars would have exactly the same specification.
The project has been funded by SMC Capital investments, which is part owned by Essex businessman Colin Sullivan, a good friend of F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone.
Competitors in the series will drive identical Dallara single-seaters with 4-litre Judd engines. There will be two races at every meeting, which will not clash with Formula 1 grands prix. Cars will use slick tyres and there will be no fuel stops.
Football teams will pay for cars to compete in their colours. The clubs invited to participate will be chosen on the basis of a six-year analysis of their performances.