By Sauber-Petronas (19/2/2004)
February 19 2004

SAUBER PETRONAS test driver Neel Jani launched the build-up to April´s inaugural Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix. The 20 year-old Swiss reached speeds of just under 300 kph in his Formula One car as he easily broke the speed limit on King Faisal Highway . . . . . . in front of a mesmerised crowd of 20,000 motorsport fans and enthusiastic spectators. Jani´s high-speed run in the SAUBER PETRONAS C22 was the highlight of an action packed day in the heart of the Kingdom´s capital city Manama. Thousand of fans turned out to experience the sensation of the first live running of a Formula One car in the Middle East and gain a preview of the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix on 04.04.04.

"I´m very proud that I was the very first to drive a Formula One car in the Middle East and to show to the enthusiastic citizens what Formula One is all about," said Neel Jani after his demonstration runs. "It´s also the first time that I have ´legally´ jumped a red light! Seriously though, I really enjoyed the opportunity to give the people of Bahrain a feeling of the passion, speed and sound that exist within this sport. I also had the chance to visit the Bahrain International Circuit and I´m very impressed by this ultra-modern facility. The race will certainly be a big challenge and I can´t wait to see it."

"Formula One has a massive following and this year Bahrain will become a member of an extremely exclusive club by hosting the third round of the 18 races FIA Formula One World Championship. Those attending the race in April will experience the thrilling atmosphere of the World Championship at close quarters," said the Chairman of Bahrain International Circuit, Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al Khalifa.

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