Minardi in Hyde Park

Over the last 18 months, European Minardi's exciting two-seater Formula One cars have performed before enthusiastic crowds in such locations as Beijing, Kuala Lumpur and Melbourne. This weekend, however, the Minardi F1x2 programme broke new ground when one of its cars ran for the first time in central London. The venue was Hyde Park, the driver was European Minardi's rising young British Formula One star, Justin Wilson, and the high-profile passenger was UK Minister of Sports, the Rt Hon Richard Caborn, MP.

The purpose of the event was to provide the Minister with first-hand experience of Formula One ahead of next weekend's British Grand Prix at Silverstone. Ensuring that he received the full F1 experience, the team also staged a lightning-quick pit stop along the course set out on North Carriage Drive. The "lollipop man" on this special occasion was none other than European Minardi Team Principal, Paul Stoddart.

"When we were approached to help publicise the upcoming British Grand Prix in this way, we were more than happy to oblige," comments Paul Stoddart. "It's one of our team's 'home' races, and has even more significance this year because of the fact Justin is driving for us. He is undoubtedly the Formula One 'Rookie of the Year' so far this season, and looks very much like being a major star of the future for his country.

"It is also extremely good news that the Minister was able to spare some time from his busy schedule to be here today and experience a little bit of what Formula One is all about. It is a hugely significant business for this country, both technologically and commercially, and it is good to see the government understands that and is making efforts to preserve and nurture the industry."

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