Asian Motor Sports

The newly introduced Formula V6 Asia by Renault is the ideal platform for drivers to prepare themselves for a future in Formula One. According to ex-Formula One driver, Alex Yoong, the all new series is the “missing link” which will make it easier for drivers to step up to Formula One.

The eagerly anticipated Formula V6 Asia by Renault series will be making its debut during the Asian Festival of Speed (AFOS) at Sepang International Circuit from Friday, 12th May to Sunday, 14th May 2006.

The Formula V6 Asia (FV6A) by Renault is the most technologically advanced car in its category; it is also the most eagerly awaited single-seater series to arrive in the region. The inception of the FV6A by Renault marks a big step forward for the AFOS as FV6A by Renault will be the fastest single-seater race series in Asia.

Alex Yoong was invited to conduct the “Shakedown Test” of the Formula V6 cars built by Renault at Sepang Circuit. Alex was impressed with the performance of the FV6A: “The make-up of the car is quite similar to the ones in Formula 1 with the semi-auto gear boxes and digital display.” After a few spins around the circuit, “Within the cockpit of the Formula V6 Asia there are many similarities.”

“This is certainly the missing link for drivers who are looking to step up to Formula 1. Especially in Asia where most drivers start off with karting and then go on to events such as Formula BMW. Although there is nothing wrong with that, but the feel is different and this new category definitely fills the void” continued Alex.

He added the introduction of the Formula V6 cars in this year’s AFOS makes financial sense as drivers within the region will no longer need to go overseas to get to drive in such cars. “It is not easy or cheap to race in Europe and many aspiring drivers have difficulty finding sponsors. This is where the Formula V6 Asia can help out.”

“I have given the engineers and crew of Motorsport Asia some feedback on the set-up and I am delighted to be of service to them. I strongly believe this Formula V6 Asia by Renault will be an exciting addition to AFOS.”

Following the “Shakedown” by Alex, teams have arrived to prepare for a specially arranged workshop session. The official handover of the cars and a test session took place today, Monday, 24th April 2006. Former A1GP drivers Karun Chandhok of India and Ananda Mikola of Indonesia, along with China Formula Renault 2000 Champion, Hanss Lin of Taiwan, were some of Asia’s biggest names in racing that were seen at the circuit with their teams.

Organised by Motorsport Asia Limited and sanctioned by the FIA, the AFOS event offers fans three other major championships this year – Formula BMW Asia (FBMW), Porsche Carrera Cup Asia (PCCA) and the ever exciting Asian Touring Car Championship (ATCC). The first two races of the Formula V6 Asia by Renault series will be held at Sepang International Circuit on Saturday, May 13 and Sunday, May 14, 2006.

In addition to the superb racing that is on the cards, fans will also be treated to a drift demonstration during the lunch break on Sunday, May 14 at the paddock car park area. There will also be a total of 80 cars being displayed at the Mall Area on Sunday.

Entrance for the event is free on Friday, 12th May and Saturday, 13th May with Grand Stand tickets for Sunday, 14th May priced at only RM12 which will be available at the entrance of the circuit.

For further information, please contact: Ms Kelly Khaw at 03-20261680 or log on to the AFOS Website.