Momentum builds for Portugal Algarve race

A1 Team Portugal’s Filipe Albuquerque made a final appearance at the WRC Rally of Portugal yesterday as the build up continues to the Vodafone A1GP Algarve, 10 – 12 April, with the next event being the PortimÃ£o A1GP Speed Demo this week.

The distinctive notes of the Ferrari engine could be heard for a final time entertaining the crowds as Albuquerque powered his A1GP car around the Super Special Stage in the Estadio Algarve, the base of the Vodafone Rally of Portugal.

“It was harder yesterday, said Albuquerque, “because there was a lot more rubber on the track so I struggled a little bit to do donuts. It was still a good show though and the crowd enjoyed it. I could still interact with them and tried to think where I could improve the show for them after last Thursday so I gave it more revs and they were happier."

After entertaining the crowds at the WRC, A1 Team Portugal will also be appearing in the PortimÃ£o A1GP Speed Demo in the PortimÃ£o Marina this week.

Surrounded by some of the most beautiful beaches of Europe, the PortimÃ£o Marina includes restaurants, shops, bars and an Oceanic swimming-pool facing out to sea.

Between 19.00 and 20.30 on Wednesday (8 April) fans will be able to get up close to the A1 Team Portugal car, as well as getting a chance to take a closer look at some of the other top teams in the championship. A1 Teams Ireland and the Netherlands will be there as well as the FHM grid girls in front of the stunning backdrop of the Portimao Marina. Spectators will also have another chance to hear the Ferrari engine as Albuquerque drives the A1GP car along the avenue to the marina. A1GP’s Ferrari 599 Safety Car will also be taking to the streets to entertain the fans. A selection of drivers will also be joining Portugal’s star driver to meet fans and sign autographs ahead of the racing action at the AutÂ¢dromo Internacional do Algarve this weekend. Fans will also be able to purchase tickets for the event at the PortimÃ£o A1GP Speed Demo.

Commenting on the PortimÃ£o A1GP Speed Demo, Albuquerque continued: “It’s fantastic because if you go to a race track you don’t normally get as close to the drivers and cars as you can there, it would never normally be possible so I think it’s unique and a one off opportunity. I will be there and will try to put on the best show possible so I think fans should make sure they don’t miss it."

Vodafone A1GP Algarve, Portugal takes place from 10-12 April at the AutÂ¢dromo Internacional do Algarve. Tickets for the event can be purchased at AutÂ¢dromo Internacional do Algarve and nationwide at FNAC, Media Markt, El Corte InglÃªs, PavilhÃ£o AtlÃ¢ntico, Arena de PortimÃ£o and at www.autodromodoalgarve.com. Further information about the event can be found at www.A1GP.com