Mexico's dignitaries turned out in force yesterday to support the launch of A1 Team Mexico in the World Cup of Motorsport.

Attended by guests including prominent business leaders and ministers, A1 Team Mexico President Juan Cortina introduced the race car, in full Mexican livery, at the prestigious Hipodromo de Las Americas. Himself a leading businessman committed to the development of his country's economy and national image, Cortina spoke of his enthusiasm for A1 Grand Prix. "We are very excited that Mexico is going to have the opportunity to participate in the World Cup of Motorsport. Mexico has all the ingredients to be very competitive in this new and exciting series and we are very proud to be able to build this winning team."

A1 Team Mexico Vice President Julio Jáuregui followed by saying, "The opportunity that A1 has given us to represent our nation worldwide, not only gives our country global exposure, but also raises the profile of our culture, which is rich in motorsport history."

Welcoming the first country of the Americas to launch their A1 Grand Prix team Founder, President and Chairman Sheikh Maktoum said, "I am immensely proud to attend the first launch of an A1 team from the Americas and would like to take this opportunity to welcome them into the growing A1 family. I am also very happy to announce on this occasion, that the Brazilian team has been sold to Ronaldo, one of the world's greatest athletes and national hero to the 180 million-strong Brazilian population. A1 Grand Prix is a truly global series reaching every continent in the world and as our footprint continues to expand, I look forward to increasing our American contingent."

Speaking of his involvement in A1 Grand Prix Ronaldo commented, "It's an honour to represent Brazil in any way I can whether that's on the football pitch or by backing our national motorsport team. Like football, A1 Grand Prix is a team sport. Ultimately, it will be the country who will win the World Cup of Motorsport, not the driver. We've won the football World Cup more times than any other nation – it would be great to win the first ever World Cup of Motorsport to go alongside it."

Concluding the official unveiling of A1 Team Mexico, top Champ Car driver and native Mexican, Mario Dominguez will proudly drive the A1 car at the Autodromo 'Hermanos Rodriguez' today. Decked-out in the red, white and green colours of the national flag, A1 Team Mexico looks set to bring the spirit and flare of Central America to the inaugural World Cup of Motorsport.