04 July 2008
This honour has been given to the mayor of Valencia, Rita Barberá, and the president of the regional government, Francisco Camps. With motorcycle champion and Grand Prix of Europe director Martínez Aspar at the wheel, Ms. Barberá and Mr. Camps were the first to tour the full 5,473 meter course.
After nine months of preparation, the Formula 1 circuit finally got a green light in Valencia. The circuit has been fully asphalted and, lacking only the section near the BMW Oracle and Alinghi bases and the pit lane, the 25 curves of the circuit already indicate the skill drivers will need to navigate one of the quickest courses in the world.
Only two months shy of the race, the first grandstands have been built of a total of 27 stands from which over 150,000 spectators will be able to follow the race.
Race organisers expect 150,000 visitors to the city for the race alone. As was the case in other competitions such as the America’s Cup, this will benefit many companies in the Valencia region.
To help build a positive image of the community, municipal authorities will prepare the adjacent gardens to line the circuit with park areas.
The Grand Prix of Europe will get its definitive green light in August.
LAS PROVINCIAS
