LONDON - Former Formula One world champions Emerson Fittipaldi, Alain Prost and Alan Jones head a field of over 45-year-old drivers in the inaugural grand prix of a new Masters series launched yesterday.
Up to 16 identical cars capable of more than 322km/h are expected to take part at the
former grand prix venue of Kyalami, South Africa, on November 13.
In addition to the three world champions, the field also includes former Formula One drivers Italian Ricardo Patrese, 51, and Andrea de Ceasaris, 46, Swede Stefan Johansson, 48, Dutchman Jan Lammers, 49, and France's Rene Arnoux, 57.
A spokesman for the organisers said they were in discussion with 1992 Formula One world champion Nigel Mansell about his involvement in the series.
Brazilian Fittipaldi, Formula One world champion in 1972 and 1974, said he thought there would be plenty of excitement.
"Reuniting champions and great drivers from the past in a racing environment where we'll have very powerful cars with minimal technological driver-aids will make for great entertainment and fun for both the drivers and spectators alike," said the 58-year-old.
Jones, also 58, won the Formula One world title for Williams in 1980 and although he retired from grand prix racing nearly two decades ago, said his competitive instinct was intact.
"Some of us haven't raced for nearly 25 years but rest assured we will be ready and hungry on November 13," he said.
"Once you get behind the wheel of a racing car you want nothing but victory.
"We all have egos and we all think we are better than each other and when those red lights go out in Kyalami in around 10 weeks from now, the desire and commitment will be nothing short of absolute."
The organisers said they were still negotiating with venues for the 2006 championship, which might include a street race in North America.
- REUTERS
