Race Review: A1 Grand Prix Of Nations, Brands Hatch, England
Date - 25 September - 25 A1 race cars thrilled spectators and television viewers worldwide in the first A1 Grand Prix of Nations. The historic Brands Hatch circuit was the opener for this new series in the world of motorsport. In an action-packed race drivers, representing their home countries, fought for position with each trying to earn the first points on offer in the World Cup of Motorsport, ever.
Team Brazil, with driver Nelson Piquet Jr., took first place securing themselves 10 points and a $300,000 cheque in prize-money. It was not that easy a race for the pole starter who had to battle for first place with Will Power of Team Australia after trouble in the compulsory pit-stop.
And what a race it was; from the very first corner it was incident filled with crashes and some pretty slick and daring overtaking manoeuvres. There is a power-boost button which a driver can use a maximum of 8 times during a race which proved to only enhance the entertainment.
A huge off was had by Team Lebanon driver Khalil Beschir who barrel-rolled in spectacular fashion after an attempt by the Team Italy car to pass him at the first corner on lap 13. Lebanon's rear tyre caught on Italy's front which lifted the team Lebanon car into the air and ended up with the driver stranded up-side-down in the sand trap. Great footage was aired from inside the cock-pit showing a unique view on what happens when a car rolls. A1 officials were very pleased that the safety of the car was proven as the driver was not injured at all.
