Sheikh Maktoum Hasher Maktoum Al Maktoum - better known as 'Mak' to Pitpass regulars, founder of the A1 GP series, has been selected as a Young Global Leader 2007 by the World Economic Forum, a Geneva-based independent international organization of world leaders from the public, private and non-governmental sectors.

The prestigious annual event recognized 250 distinguished individuals under the age of forty-one for their record of accomplishments, their commitment to society and their potential to contribute to shaping the future of the world. The candidates were evaluated by a selection committee of 34 eminent international media leaders led by Her Majesty Queen Rania of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.

"For those of us that have experienced boardroom meetings with His Highness Sheikh Maktoum it is no surprise that His Highness has been nominated by the World Economic Forum as a Young Global Leader," said Dr. Shahram Abdullah Zadeh, CEO of Al Fajer Properties, a member of Al Fajer Group. "Sheikh Maktoum is well known internationally for his inspiring strategic vision. I am sure his humble approach will win many hearts at the forum."

Having founded the A1 GP series - the World Cup of Motorsport in 2003, Maktoum subsequently sold the brand and his stake in order to focus on other international business opportunities through Dubai International Holding Company, the investment company of which he is the Executive Chairman.

"Having been successful in business based on models of global cooperation, I believe that the betterment of international relations is key to solving global problems," said Sheikh Maktoum, who will be participating in the Annual Summit of The Forum of Young Global Leaders in China in September. "I am honoured to be nominated and I am energized by the opportunity presented to me by the World Economic Forum to further international communications and to join leaders of the future in a vision of a great global society."

Pitpass, which offers Mak its sincere congratulations on his nomination, has heard through the grapevine that he could well 'pop up' as part of the consortium that has bought out Aston Martin. We hear that news will follow within the next month, once some Is have been dotted and Ts crossed.