The two men that have seen A1 GP become reality, who took, a self-confessed madman's, dream, and made it real, thereby stirring the passions of race fans, former World Champions, and race drivers, around the world, left Brands Hatch contented yesterday afternoon.

"To actually see my dream come true today was for me, truly amazing," said Sheikh Maktoum. "I am delighted at the number of people who came to watch what was an historic event and I hope they enjoyed the day and will now want to follow our series.

"We know from the number of hits on our own website that we already have millions of fans around the world and I hope those who were watching us from their own homes also felt this was something special.

"We have learnt a lot this weekend," he added, "and I want to thank everyone involved in whatever capacity who made today happen.'

"What I have seen today has turned me into a real petrol head," admitted A1 GP CEO, Tony Teixeira. "I became involved in A1GP as I saw it as a sound business proposal. All the numbers stacked up and the fact 25 nations also saw this in the same light means my initial reaction was the right one.

"Having now seen our first race weekend I can pursue sponsors with a renewed passion as we have something very special to offer them on a worldwide platform.'