YMC to host 377 activities over next 12 months

Denzil Pinto 09:09 28/09/2016
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Mail
  • Pinterest
  • LinkedIn
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • WhatsApp
  • Pinterest
  • LinkedIn
  • YMC CEO Al Tareq Al Ameri had previously hinted their desire of bringing the premier motorcycling competition to Abu Dhabi, but plans never materialised.

    Due to illness, the Emirati was unable to attend yesterday’s calendar launch that will see YMC hold more than 377 activities (motorsport and non-motorsport) over the next 12 months.

    But Ahmed Al Kaabi, head of strategic alliances at YMC, insists the idea to see the likes of Marc Marquez and Jorge Lorenzo in action is still strong.

    “The thing is people always ask why we don’t host this race or that race,” said Al Kaabi. “It all depends on the circuit. Sometimes we need to modify some of the safety areas at Yas Marina Circuit to accommodate any races for their specific needs.

    “But in the future why not? (inhosting a MotoGP race), we’re always open to ideas. Every circuit in the world, whenever you host any events, there is safety procedures that you have to follow.”

    When asked whether they have a timeframe in mind to stage a possible race, he replied: “I’m not sure when. In general in MotoGP, there would be very minor changes needed in safety to accommodate this race.”

    With the focus set for the new season, Formula One remains the highlight event for YMC. With still two months to go until the world’s elite drivers take to the track from November 25-27, preparations are going smoothly to deliver a “thrilling experience” for everyone.

    “The ticket sales has been really good but it’s not sold out though,” said Al Kaabi. “Formula One, as is every year, is something always special and the title championship has been very exciting so far.

    “It will be a thrilling experience for everyone this year.”

    For the first time, the venue will host the Formula 4 UAE championship when it makes its debut from October 28-29. Twelve of the 18 rounds will be held in the capital for the new championship created by FIA, designed to help drivers in the UAE a chance to move up the ladderboard in the sport with FIA Super Licence points on offer.

    “The preparations have been going well. We have had a lot of interest and hopefully we can finalise the drivers by early next month,” said Mohammed Ben Sulayem, president of Automobile and Touring Club of the UAE (ATCUAE).

    Recommended