A1 Grand Prix (A1GP) was a 'single make' open-wheel auto racing series. It was unique in its field in that competitors solely represented their nation as opposed to themselves or a team, the usual format in most formula racing series. As such, it was often promoted as the "World Cup of Motorsport". The series was ratified by the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) and races were held in the traditional Formula One off-season, the northern hemisphere winter.[1] The nation-based A1GP concept was founded by Sheikh Maktoum Hasher Maktoum Al Maktoum of Dubai, initially in 2003.[2] After a successful first season of A1GP, it was announced on 29 September 2006 that Maktoum was to sell his position as Chairman & Director of A1GP.[3] The transfer of his share in the organisation of A1 Grand Prix to RAB Capital was finalized in December 2006. Tony Teixeira took control of the series in 2006, leading it to liquidation by 2009.[4] However unconfirmed reports have emerged that a rescue package has emerged and with the chassis and other cars still in the hands of the administrator a possible resurrection plan having been created for the 2011-2012 season.[5]
Champions[]
| Season | Champion | Second | Third |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2005–06 |  France(Alexandre Prémat/Nicolas Lapierre) |
 Switzerland(Neel Jani/Giorgio Mondini) |
 Great Britain(Robbie Kerr/Darren Manning) |
| 2006–07 |  Germany(Nico Hülkenberg/Christian Vietoris) |
 New Zealand(Matt Halliday/Jonny Reid) |
Great Britain (Darren Manning/Robbie Kerr/Oliver Jarvis) |
| 2007–08 | Switzerland (Neel Jani) |
New Zealand (Jonny Reid) |
Great Britain (Oliver Jarvis/Robbie Kerr) |
| 2008–09 |  Ireland(Adam Carroll) |
Switzerland (Neel Jani) |
 Portugal(Filipe Albuquerque) |
| 2009–10 | season cancelled | ||
References[]
- ↑ What is A1 Grand Prix? A1GP official website
- ↑ A1GP History a1gp.com
- ↑ Official A1GP Press Release
- ↑ "Series in doubt after liquidation,", crash.net, 30 June 2009
- ↑ Autosport. http://www.autosport.com/news/grapevine.php/id/85015.