03/07/2008
Morocco will host its first international motorsports race since the 1958 Formula One Grand Prix, when the Federation Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) World Touring Car Championship expands to Africa next year, local and international press reported on Wednesday (July 2nd). Morocco's return to international Grand Prix racing was announced during a press conference at Marrakech's El Saadi Palace. The president of the Marrakech Grand Prix, Ali Horma, said that the May 1st, 2009 race "will have an unprecedented impact on Moroccan economy and tourism". He added that everyone must work together "to prove to the world that Morocco can build a street circuit and organise a motorsport event according to the FIA standards". The three-day event is expected to draw 100,000 fans and spectators to Marrakech, promoters said.