Dubai to host largest Historic F1 event since 1981

October 13, 2021 / 10:48 PM

Sharjah 24: Dubai Autodrome is hosting the Historic Dubai Grand Prix Revival, Powered by Gulf Historic, in honour of the UAE's 50th anniversary, calling attention to the 1981 Dubai Grand Prix, which was the region's first of its kind. The landmark race will be held on December 3 at Dubai Autodrome, the UAE's first premium motorsport and driving venue in the Middle East, and will have all of the hallmarks of the 1981 event. From the 1970s to the 1990s, historic F1 and Group C vehicles competed.

The first Grand Prix in the Gulf was held in Dubai in 1981 as part of the UAE's 10th anniversary celebrations. under the patronage of the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, (may his soul rest in peace) alongside many of the world's most famous drivers, including Nigel Mansel, Juan Manuel Fangio, and Stirling Moss, among others.

Fast-forward 40 years, commenting on the upcoming event, Faisal Al Sahlawi, General Manager at Dubai Autodrome said:” Dubai Autodrome is excited to relive a part of the region’s racing history. It has been decades since that remarkable event that brought racers, drivers and fans to Dubai to witness the first F1 Grand Prix in the region. Dubai has hosted hundreds of motorsports events since that historic event. The audience will be able to see classic Formula 1 cars, Group C cars, and other vehicles race around the 5.39-kilometer Dubai Autodrome Circuit this year. As we commemorate the country's 50th anniversary, our purpose is to bring the past and present together. We hope to deliver a family-friendly day to Dubai Autodrome with the help of our partners."

The event, which will feature a display of iconic and classic automobiles, activities for children, raffles and prizes, vintage exhibition displays, and UAE traditional activities with live music and entertainment, will be a blend of motorsports and festivities.