European Grand Prix
by ArabianBusiness.com staff writer on Wednesday, 26 March 2008
Set along the stunning Mediterranean coast in Spain's third largest city, Valencia, the European Grand Prix is expected to be nothing short of phenomenal.
The Valencia circuit is now regarded as the Monaco Grand Prix's ‘sister race' because the Principality can no longer boast the only harbour side street course, on the F1 calendar.
Valencia's new street circuit will run alongside the harbour-side around America's Cup Port, which currently houses the America's Cup sailing event. As well as sailing, cycling, diving, golfing, racing are all popular pastimes, such is this city's love of sport.
Located along the Mediterranean Sea and blessed with good weather year-round, Valencia is almost always drenched in sun with pristine beaches and azure blue waters.
After the race spend the evening relaxing in an outdoor café with a pitcher of sangria and a dish of paella, or perhaps sample the sizzling nightlife.
Off track
Spain's third-largest city, and capital of the province of Valencia, always comes as a pleasant surprise to visitors. Home to paella, this city is also blessed with a great climate and a host of tourist attractions - perfect for anyone wanting a rest from F1.
One of Valencia's best attractions is the baroque Palacio del Marqués de Dos Aguas. The facade is extravagantly sculpted and the inside is just as outrageous.
The Museo de Bellas Artes also ranks among the best museums in the country, containing works by artists such as El Greco, Goya and Velázquez.
A visit to Oceanogràfic, Europe's largest aquarium is highly recommended for those of us who love to be at one with nature.
A favourite pastime for many Spaniards is resting on a café terrace and watching the world go by.
There's nowhere better to do this in Valencia than Plaza de la Virgen, so sit back, relax and enjoy.
Formula fun
Eighteen cities, nine months, 26 teams, 11 drivers, but just one winner - this is life in the fast lane.
Australian Grand Prix
The Formula One Australian Grand Prix is frequently presented with the award for best organised event by the FIA, which means that both on and off the track - this is an event not to be missed.
Malaysian Grand Prix
The Malaysian Grand Prix may not have been part of the Formula One circuit for long, but Kuala Lumpur boasts a track worthy of hosting both the F1 grand Prix and FIM Motorcycle Grand Prix and one which really raises the standards for all other circuits.
Bahrain Grand Prix
The Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix is arguably the biggest sporting occasion in the Middle East.
Spanish Grand Prix
Set in the vibrant Barcelona the Spanish Grand Prix is one of the most exciting races in the F1 circuit.
Turkish Grand Prix
The Istanbul Racing Circuit is located on the Asian side of Istanbul and is just a stone's throw away from the newly constructed Sabiha Gokcen Istanbul Airport.
Monaco Grand Prix
In the world of major sporting events, nothing can compare to the sheer elegance, glamour and excitement that is arguably Formula One's most prestigious race - the Grand Prix of Monaco.
Canadian Grand Prix
With the combination of the fantastic Gilles Villeneuve track and its exceptional nightlife, Montreal has become an annual trip for many motor lovers from all over the world.
French Grand Prix
There is something very special about the French Grand Prix in Magny Cours.
British Grand Prix
The very first Formula One Grand Prix took place at Silverstone in 1948 on a track marked out with straw bales and large oil drums.
German Grand Prix
Traditionally the German Grand Prix was all about raw horsepower. It was a flat-out blast around a 4.2 mile tree-lined track before it raged into the stadium section that houses the thousands of fans.
Hungarian Grand Prix
The Hungaroring circuit is 19km from the centre of Budapest, alongside the M3 motorway at the border of the village, Mogyoród.
Belgian Grand Prix
The Belgian Grand Prix is favourite track amongst many drivers.
Italian Grand Prix
For passionate Formula One fans the world over, the Italian Grand Prix is one not to be missed. Few stops along the Formula One route can rival that of Italy's celebrated Grand Prix.
Singapore Grand Prix
There is much anticipation about the Singapore Grand Prix. Not only is it the newest addition to the Formula One calendar, but it is Formula One's first ever night race.
Japanese Grand Prix
Because of the exciting and challenging layout of Fuji Speedway Circuit the Japanese Grand Prix is one of the most-loved F1 events of the season.
Chinese Grand Prix
The Chinese Grand Prix circuit is like no other, shaped like a letter or character from the Shang (ancient Chinese alphabet), it combines sweeping curves and long straights leading onto hairpin corners, succeeded in making overtaking opportunities possible.
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