After a successful inaugural season, the Asian Geely Formula International Open (AGF) is accelerating efforts to create more racing opportunities for local drivers.

AGF, sanctioned by the International Automobile Association (FIA) and Federation of China Autosports (FASC), was the first domestic formula racing event. This season races will be held in Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu and Zhuhai from June to November, three more than last year.

To make the event more competitive and appealing, each stage will include three timed and untimed practices and one warm-up before the race, along with other off-track activities.

While Formula One and A1 Grand Prix are raising interest in motor sport in China, there are few opportunities to develop local driving talent.

"Due to the lack of formula cars, China has to rely on major tournaments overseas. China's racing car industry still lags behind the world's best. It is unlikely a Chinese driver will compete in F1 for the time being," Yan Jianchang, director of FASC, said at a press conference in Beijing on Monday.

"The successful design of Geely formula cars sets a solid base for China to host high-level formula events and there are chances for more local drivers to get involved."

The cars, co-designed by Geely and UK racing company Van-Diemen, mark the first time that a domestic car producer has been involved in racing car design. The organizing committee has promised to do more work on improving the cars and narrowing the gap with F1 or A1 vehicles.

Another plan for 2007 is to set up three or four training sessions for driving hopefuls.

"We hope to improve the overall level of China's formula racing drivers rather than those in the top group," said Li Jianquan, secretary of the organizing committee, at the press conference.

"AGF is a good platform to enhance driving skills and will help develop Chinese formula drivers. We also welcome overseas drivers to take part and help develop the sport in China."

(China Daily March 21, 2007)