As the momentum of the 2009 Donington Park motorsport calendar continues to gather pace, the Leicestershire parkland circuit has confirmed an additional race date for August. Masters Historic Racing will host a one-day noisy event on Sunday 23 August, to give members a final opportunity to race on the present track layout.

Races will include classic action from World Sports cars, a GT race and Pre-66 Saloons, in addition to an experimental race - the Interserie Revival. The new race will see the types of cars that raced in the early 70s battling it out for victory with other slick-tyred prototypes of 2 and 3 litres. The event is not to be missed by any classic car enthusiast.

For fans with more modern tastes, Donington Park will stage the third round of the Superleague Formula by Sonangol on the first weekend in August. The football-focused race series, of V12 powered 750 horsepower single-seater cars, is only in its second season. The event proved to be a real spectacle for visitors on its inaugural visit to the Leicestershire parkland circuit in 2008 and this season promises to be just as exciting.

The Liverpool FC team stole an early march on the lead when the 2009 series kicked-off at Magny Cours last weekend.  They will be looking to remain at the front of the field for round two at Zolder in Belgium before heading to the UK round at Donington Park in Leicestershire.

"It's important to us to continue to supply motorsport action to enthusiasts of all types of cars and motorcycles," says Donington Park Chief Executive Simon Gillett. "We're committed to racing at all levels and the Masters Historic Racing and Superleague Formula events are a perfect demonstration of the diversity of series that we provide at Donington Park.

"Superleague Formula is an exciting new series that I can only see growing in popularity and the Masters Historic Racing already has excellent support. It's great to hear that many of the members were keen to race again on our existing layout and we're delighted to welcome them back."

Friday/Saturday/Sunday 3/4/5 July

Donington Park

Celebrate a half century of the Mini by enjoying them in race action at Donington Park during this weekend’s Dunlop Great and British Motorsport Festival which also provides a strong International flavour.

Sharing the billing with the best of British clubbie racing are two top championships, bringing a packed grid of exotic and expensive sportscars lining up for the International GT Open race while many of the sport’s aspiring F1 drivers will be taking to the Leicestershire circuit in the European F3 Open series races.

Across the weekend there is a packed programme of 18 races, and while Friday is largely down to practice apart from one race for Radical sports; Saturday has a busy mix of qualifying and racing through from 09.15, with Sunday the feature day with a superb array of ten races. For many the lure of the high powered Porsche 997RSRs and Ferrari 430GTCs racing in the International GT Open will be the main attraction and they take to the track twice, for a 70 minute race on Saturday and a further 50 minute dash on Sunday.

Single seater fans will savour the big entry for the European F3, which has drivers from seven countries, among them Brits Callum Macleod and Jonathan Legris, bidding for victory at the wheel of their Dallaras, but for many the charm of the Mini will rule supreme and there are five races for these ever popular cars. 

The Dunlop Mini Se7en Challenge and the Dunlop Mini Miglia Championship while the Mini Challenge features the Mini Coopers – they can always be relied on for close competition, hunting in packs in the sprint to the line.

Around them there is more action for the Radical Sportscars while Vauxhall Astras predominate in the BARC Dunlop Sportmaxx Production Cup races with BMW M3s providing the heart of the action in the CSL Cup.

Action on track on Friday starts at 09.05 with one race at 16.35; on Saturday at 09.15 with a mix of qualifying and races; and on Sunday at 09.05 with racing from 09.55.  Adult admission is Friday £5, Saturday £12, Sunday £12. Accompanied children aged 15 years and under are admitted free. All parking is free.

With days to go ahead of a North West Leicestershire District Council planning permission deadline, a Section 106 agreement has been signed by all relevant parties to provide a final rubber stamp to the planning permission for Donington Park's redevelopment programme.

Circuit owner, Simon Gillett, signed the document today, which had already been signed by landowner, Tom Wheatcroft. The seal of approval means that planned construction work can re-commence on site immediately, with the purpose of getting the Leicestershire parkland circuit ready for hosting the 2010 British Formula One Grand Prix.

Permission for the plans was originally granted on 8 January 2009, with the signing of a Section 106 agreement applied as a condition of approval. Today's news adds further credibility to Donington Park's promises that it will be ready to host F1 races from next year, which is the start of a 17-year agreement with series rights holder Bernie Ecclestone.

Further weight was also added to the circuit's credentials last week, as ISG CEO Andrew Hampel released a statement rubbishing the claims made by British Racing Drivers Club (BRDC) Chairman Richard Brooks.

"It is nonsense to say that the Donington Park figures and debenture scheme does not stack up," wrote Hampel. "Through IMG and Bastion, ISG has vast experience and we are world leaders in the area of stadium and arena marketing. Without doubt, as paying customers, motorsport fans are ready for the same level of quality that fans of other leading sports have become accustomed to, and there is no reason that Donington Park cannot provide that."

Despite preparations for this weekend's World Superbike Championship event, which is expected to attract tens of thousands of visitors, planned work on the new pits and paddock complex is set to begin immediately. The footings will be pulled through by contractors already on site, using Ruttle construction machinery that has been waiting to tackle the job.

"It's great to have cleared another hurdle and to see the hard work of the entire team at the circuit paying off," says Simon Gillett. "There's no denying that we still have a lot of hard work ahead but we'll continue to remain positive and do everything that we can to deliver against the promises that we have been made. The construction work is obviously extremely important, but we're also trying hard to ensure that it doesn't compromise the experience that our visitors to forthcoming events have."

For updates on Donington Park's F1 progress and to register an early interest in tickets for next year's events, please visit www.share-our-vision.com

Round nine  - Sunday 28 June – Donington Park

World Superbike Championship

Jonathan Rea, fresh from his maiden race victory in the World Superbike Championship last weekend, powers into Donington Park full of confidence for this Sunday's ninth and British round of the series.

Riding the Hannspree Ten Kate Honda, the 22 year old from Ballymena, headed off the title chasing Ducati duo of Noriyuki Haga and Michel Fabrizio in the second race of the afternoon at Misano, and now Rea is ready for more.

"It was really nice to win in Italy, in Ducati's back yard, where we thought it would be quite hard. But we've come leaps and bounds recently and hopefully we can fight at the front in every race now, starting at Donington," said Rea who will face a tough duel amid a strong British contingent gunning for home glory.

Reigning British Champion Shane Byrne warmed up with his best result of the season in the World series as he took second place on his Sterilgarda Ducati in the wet-dry opening race at Misano where there were also strong performances from Leon Haslam, riding Stiggy Honda, and Tom Sykes aboard the factory backed Yamaha.

They all know Donington well, from the terms in the domestic series, but will be fully tested by the wild-card, promoter's option, entries into the UK's only round for this high powered production based championship.

The Burton on Trent based Airwaves Yamaha team could upset the form-book - they have already raced in the British Superbike series at the Leicestershire circuit with each of their riders, championship leading Leon Camier and James Ellison, taking a victory there.

"I'm excited to see how we do against the World Superbike teams and riders, I'm sure it won't be an easy weekend," said Camier whose aim is to graduate onto the world stage next season. "It's important to treat these races like any other but of course I would love to come away with two good results. It's the reason we're going there!"

Ellison, who took a fourth place in the World series as a wild-card runner last year, is relishing the prospect of better things: "Last week I actually forgot about going to Snetterton because I was looking forward to Donington Park so much.

"I scored my first ever BSB win there and it'd be awesome to add some strong World Superbike results to my record. We're going to be competing against the best in the world and the racing should be really close.

"The Airwaves Yamaha team potentially has a big advantage in having raced at Donington Park in May. We'll be there flying the flag for Britain and for the British Superbike Championship," added Ellison.

And, Simon Andrews riding the MSS Colchester Kawasaki, will be adding to the domestic fire power in the races which feature the ongoing scrap for the crown between Ducati's Noriyuki Haga and Yamaha's former triple American champion Ben Spies.

In between the afternoon's two Superbike races, there is the continuing all British dice for the World Supersport title between Coventry's Cal Crutchlow, the winner last Sunday in Misano, and Eugene Laverty.  This is a race that neither can afford to lose, and that should ensure a thriller.

Adding to the race action on Sunday are races counting to the European Superstock 600 Championship, the FIM Superstock 1000 Cup and the domestic Thundersport and Aprilia Superteen series.  Practice and qualifying  for all classes is through Saturday and Sunday.

Advance money saving tickets are available now: www.donington-park.co.uk

The only British fixture of the 2009 World Superbike Championship at Donington Park on 26-28 June will see five British World Superbike regulars and two British Superbike wild card riders battle it out for supremacy at the Leicestershire parkland circuit. But before going head-to-head on track, some of the leading British contenders will take time out to meet fans at a not-to-be-missed autograph session.

The Brits will all be aiming to make headlines and emerge victorious at their only home event of the season. All will be hoping to gain a competitive advantage from previous experience of the track gained during their time in domestic competition. With the field dominated by British talent, there has never been a better time to witness world-class racing action at Donington Park. 

The crowd will not only be treated to a weekend of breathtaking racing. Leon Haslam, Tom Sykes and Shane Byrne have already confirmed that they will take part in an autograph session for the home fans, with other contenders looking set to follow suit and join in the fun. The event - organised to ensure fans without paddock entrance get the opportunity to meet their favourite race stars face-to-face - is free to all ticket-holders and is the perfect opportunity to bag a keepsake of what promises to be a fantastic weekend.  The signing session will take place at the Information Point on the infield. Information regarding timings will be available on the day at the Information Points.

Elsewhere, Ducati are holding an exclusive Superbike Party on Saturday 27 June at ‘The Launch Pad' venue in the Ducati Village near the main entrance to Redgate. Beginning at 8pm, the event is perfect for weekend campers and is an opportunity to party with live music, BBQ and special guest appearances from Xerox Ducati riders Noriyuki Haga and Michael Fabrizio. Tickets are priced at £12.50 and are available by calling Alison on 01332 819527 (Mon-Fro 9am-5pm).

Tickets:

For advance and grandstand WSBK tickets, please visit www.donington-park.co.uk or call 0871 230 7134. 

Simon Andrews has been give a ‘wild-card’ ticket to ride in the British round of the World Superbike Championship at Donington Park on Sunday 28 June.

The Evesham rider will be making his debut onto the World stage as the series reaches the halfway point with Ducati’s Noriyuki Haga heading the title chase ahead of Yamaha riding Ben Spies.

Andrews, a regular in the British series in which he has been a growing force, will be aboard an MSS Colchester Kawasaki and he is ready for the challenge: “The bike and me are now talking the same language and it feels right to be at the pointy end to be honest.

Transferring our knowledge into World Superbikes for one event is an awesome responsibility, and something the whole team is looking forward to” added Andrews though he admitted: “I’ve had one or two tumbles lately which shows I am pushing hard.”

Nick Morgan, the principal of the MSS Colchester team, is delighted to have Andrews in action: “What a roller coaster this year has turned out to be. We

started out with so much homework to do and, suddenly, everything has clicked.

“The riders are happy with the development cycle, the fans are seeing lime green bikes pushing for the podium in the domestic series and now we can set out our stall in WSB with Simon, it’s perfect,” he added.

Andrews will be aboard one of the three Kawasaki’s on the grid at the Leicestershire grand prix circuit – the others being the factory backed machines run by the Cumbrian based Paul Bird team.

To book advance tickets for this meeting, please visit www.donington-park.co.uk

There is the chance for race-fans to meet the stars of the World Superbike Championship at Donington Park on Thursday afternoon when the paddock area is open, on a free of charge basis, between 13.30 and 18.00hrs.

There will be time for autographs and to take those special photos and also to hear from the riders who will be taking part in a chat-show hosted by Fred Clarke in the Paddock Road-Show during the afternoon.

The on-track action begins on Friday with free practice and qualifying and continues through Saturday, with the grid-deciding Superpole session for Superbikes and end of day race action for domestic Thundersports 600 and Aprilia Superteens.

Main raceday is Sunday, featuring the two World Superbike races, World Supersport, European Superstock 600 and FIM Superstock 1000 action, plus further races for Thundersports 600 and Aprilia Superteens.

This weekend's Download music festival - hailed by Radio One's Newsbeat as the best yet in its seven-year history at Donington Park* - has proved the venue's credentials for successfully hosting crowds of almost 100,000 people.

A public transport plan, similar to the one that is due to be launched for next year's first British Formula One event at the Leicestershire parkland circuit, was put into practice at the three-day sun-drenched event. The visitors - comparable in terms of numbers to a British Grand Prix attendance figure - were well catered for, with almost two thirds of event-goers choosing to camp on site.

Despite that, aerial photographs taken of the site over the weekend show a lack of congestion and traffic problems. Visitors were all effectively directed to off-site car parks to reduce the impact of the event on residents living close to the Leicestershire venue.

Download festival organiser John Probyn was delighted with the success of the event, which saw the attendance figures almost double compared with last year. "Music lovers voted with their feet this year and helped to provide a fantastic atmosphere to accompany the brilliant line-up of bands that we had organised. We've already had positive feedback, so the challenge now is to host an even better event in 2010, which we've already started planning." 

Donington Park Chief Executive, Simon Gillett, echoed the sentiments, saying: "An event like Download helps us to show just how versatile Donington Park is as a venue. We worked hard with John and the rest of the team to provide the best facilities possible and we believe that all of that work has paid off. We always said that we would show people what we're capable of rather than talk about it and this event has helped us to do just that."

"Inspector Chris Brown, Commander of North West Leicestershire local policing unit, said; "The policing of Download was a success this year, the atmosphere was great and we've received a lot of very positive comments about our policing style on our Facebook account and through the online fans forums. The success of the event is down to the detailed and organised planning which went into it by the organisers, Live Nation.  Safety and security at events which attract large crowds are paramount and, as a result, Download passed off without incident.  We are still waiting for the final crime figures but we are hoping they will show a reduction compared to last year."

Tickets for all forthcoming 2009 events at Donington Park are available now by calling 0871 230 7134 or visiting www.donington-park.co.uk  For further information on tickets and available transport options for the British Formula One Grand Prix, please register your interest at www.share-our-vision.com

Airwaves Yamaha duo given ‘wild-card' tickets to ride

WORLD SUPERBIKES - 26/27/28 JUNE - DONINGTON PARK

Leon Camier and James Ellison, the Airwaves Yamaha duo who currently lead the ViSK British Championship title race have been given ‘wild-card' tickets to ride in the British round of the World Superbike Championship at Donington Park over the weekend of 26/27/28 June.

Camier, who has won six of the eight races in the British series, heads that title race by 38 points from Ellison and now the 22 year old is eager to take his chance for more of the same, but on the world stage.

"Ever since the team told me we were going to be Wild Cards at Donington Park, I have been counting down the days! It is going to be really interesting to see how we perform against the World Superbike teams," explained Camer.

"We know the competition will be tough, but we'll be working flat out to see a British team on the podium at our home round. Hopefully the Airwaves Yamaha fans will be there to support us! It'll be a tough few weeks going straight from Snetterton to Donington Park and then to Knockhill, but I can't wait," he added.

Camier and Ellison shared the victories at the Leicestershire circuit earlier in the same: "I've always loved racing at Donington Park. Scoring my first ever BSB victory there a couple of weeks ago makes the place even more special.

"It's a real honour to be competing in the British round of the World Superbike Championship for Airwaves Yamaha. I want to thank them for giving me this incredible opportunity. I know how proud the team is of their winning trophies from 2000, so it would be a dream come true to win a few more," added Ellison.

GSE Racing, the team behind Airwaves Yamaha, has a history of success on the world stage. In 2000 they took victory as Wild Card entries at both Donington Park and Brands Hatch with rider Neil Hodgson.

Featuring “the Unapproachable Norton – Donington Park

The Donington Park Classic Revival, which features "the Unapproachable Norton," over the weekend of Friday/Saturday/Sunday 19/20/21 June, will be bigger and better than last year according to the organising Classic Racing Motorcycle Club.

A major factor in this is the amalgamation of the club's racing activities with the Norton Owners Club Golden Jubilee Festival of the Norton Motorcycle - "The Unapproachable Norton" - and there is no doubt that the weekend will provide a treat for motorcycle enthusiasts both on and off this historic track.

When the CRMC was formed thirty years ago the objective was to provide a racing environment for machines from the 1950's and 60's "Golden Era" but with the march of the years the classes have been extended so that later machinery - the post-classics - have gradually been added.

The result is that there will be machines dating from 1945 to 1986, ranging from the quintessentially British Manx Norton to Japanese P&M Kawasakis and a huge variety of two and three-wheeled machinery in between. There's one thing that can be guaranteed - unlike modern bike meetings there will be no two machines the same!

The weekend's race programme includes CRMC club championship races together with rounds of the 350, 500 and 1300cc National series, the Wheatcroft Trophy, the UEM Vintage Cup, the Lansdowne Cup and an Anglo-Nordic Match race on Sunday afternoon with teams from Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, UK and the Rest of the World. Practice will mainly take place on Friday (at 9 - 11 am and 4 - 6 pm), which means that Saturday/Sunday will be virtually wall-to-wall racing. 

Not surprisingly the meeting has attracted a huge entry, including almost every well known name from UK classic racing and nearly 50 from overseas. Many of the foreign visitors are competing in the UK round of the UEM Vintage Cup, whose events are slotted in alongside the relevant CRMC classes, and these include top riders like Jens Kroon, Pentti Elo, Sven Eric Johansen, Roland Johansson and the legendary Tepi Lansivuori. Another very welcome overseas guest is Dave Cole, all the way from New Zealand on a 350 AJS 7R and 500 McIntyre Matchless.

Sunday's feature race, for the magnificent Wheatcroft Trophy, was won last year by Lea Gourlay in treacherously slippery conditions and with Classic Racer magazine once again generously providing a £1000 prize fund the competition is bound to be red hot.

38 year old Gourlay is widely regarded as UK classic racing's top-dog and has started the 2009 CRMC season like a whirlwind with an incredible 25 wins from 28 races in the 350/500 Group 1 and 1300 Classic classes. But there's plenty of stiff competition from men like Mike Cooper, Alan Oversby, Gary Thwaites, Nigel Palmer, Stu Melling, John Cronshaw and Cormac Conroy, not to mention Phill Sharp on Brian Richards' sensational 500 MV Agusta.

Melling also hopes to be racing a TZ350 for the first time in the highly competitive 350 post-classics, where among the dozen or so riders capable of winning are 2008 champion Steve Reape, Roy Flower, Rob and Stuart Hall, Jim Agombar, Chris Rose and Bob Price. Another closely fought class is the 125 post-classics where the likes of Jerry Lodge, Ant Hart, Richard Cheetham, Graham Masheder and Nigel Hopkins will no doubt be doing their usual impression of those fabulous 125cc Grand Prix of the late 1970's/early 80's.  

The 1300 post-classics are always a pulsating class, where the big Japanese four stroke muscle bikes of riders like Ricky McMillan, Bob Price and Steven Walls mix it with the fearsome TZ750 two strokes of Rob Hall, Paul Allender, Roy Flower and Co. On the other hand, if traditional British single cylinder racers are preferred there are races for both 350 and 500 BSA Goldstars, where the competition is just as fierce as in any other class.   

The sidecars are enjoying a massive revival and this year has seen 2007 & 2008 Period 3 champions, Damien Perilleux/Nancy Detournay, coming under enormous pressure from numerous teams, the majority of them on Hillman Imp powered machinery but also the rapid BGR 750 Honda of Brian Gray/Alan Bedford.  The period 3 sidecars get most of the attention but there are also outfits from three other eras so there's plenty of battling action throughout the field.  

The prestigious Lansdowne Cup features very original specification GP solos from the 1945 - 1963 era and despite the venerable pedigree of these machines the competition is extremely fierce, with top quality riders like Glen English, Mike Russell, Duncan Fitchett, Chris Swallow, Andy Molnar, Colin Dally and Tim Jackson fighting tooth and nail for the honours.

Friday's activities are dominated by the NOC Golden Jubilee event, the centrepiece being a huge display of Nortons dating from 1903 to 2009. The Donington circuit will be available for use during the day, with opportunities for visitors and their Nortons to parade in either the road or race class. There will also be a parade of Featured Nortons, with everything from the growl of the Manx to the howl of the Rotary, including the new 2009 NRV588 (more details from www.nortonownersclub.org).  

Racing is scheduled to start at 09.00 hrs on both Saturday and Sunday. Adult admission £12 each day, accompanied children under 16, free. A £16 weekend ticket is also available (pre-purchased only) from Donington Circuit.

The Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) - the governing body for worldwide motorcycle sport - has today renewed its FIM Grade A Licence for the Donington Park Grand Prix circuit, confirming it is fully compliant to host this year's British rounds of the FIM World Superbike Championship and the FIM World MotoGP World Championship. Donington Park is the only circuit in the UK to hold an FIM Grade A motorcycle road race licence.

The licence was granted following a thorough inspection of the circuit by FIM circuit inspector Claude Danis this morning. Mr Danis confirmed that all the works in the homologation requirements had been satisfactorily carried out, including the alterations to  re-instate the huge run-off areas on the outside of the circuit between McLeans and Coppice corners, due to the circuit contractors extending the new infield tunnel in the last 10 days.   

This year's only British round of the World Superbike Championship takes place on the weekend of 26-28 June and the British contingent is the strongest line-up that the world class series has fielded for many years. With Midlander Leon Haslam already scoring podium finishes this season, he will be a favourite for a race win at his home circuit.

The British round of MotoGP is set for the following month on 24-26 July and once again James Toseland - who suffered a disappointing home GP at the Leicestershire parkland circuit last year - will be the nation's only hope in the premier class. However, the event could also prove to be seven-time world champion Valentino Rossi's last ever Grand Prix at Donington Park.

In the lower capacity 125cc class current series leader Bradley Smith will battle it out with other talented British youngsters Danny Webb, Matthew Hoyle and last year's race winner Scott Redding for a home victory. All customers purchasing tickets before 30 June will be entered into a free prize draw to win free signed James Toseland replica leathers and gloves.

"This is great news for everybody at Donington Park and all of the fans," says Donington Park Chief Executive Officer Simon Gillett. "The ticket sales for both of our world class motorcycle racing events have been extremely positive and we'd like to thank the fans who have remained loyal and believed in us for committing to buying tickets. We have already sold 50 per cent more tickets than we had at this time last year for World Superbikes and the sales of our MotoGP tickets have remained at the same level.

"We've also now opened up the opportunity for the on the day tickets for both events, which should encourage more fans to come and witness safe, enjoyable and exciting two-wheel racing at one of the UK's premier motorsport circuits. I'd like to thank the FIM for the positive working relationship that we have so far enjoyed and look forward to continuing to work with them in the future."

Entrance tickets to the 2009 World Superbike Championship and MotoGP events are now on sale at www.donington-park.co.uk. Alternatively, please call 01332 810048 for advance and grandstand tickets.

Motorsport fans remained at the heart of Donington Park’s plans today as the landowner, Wheatcroft and Son Limited, and circuit leaseholder, Donington Ventures Leisure Limited (DVLL), confirmed that they have reached an agreement which they hope will move a step closer to securing the future of East Midlands’ parkland circuit Donington Park.

The settlement was reached after court proceedings were issued by Browne Jacobson LLP, acting on behalf of Wheatcroft & Son Limited, seeking £2.47m in rent arrears and forfeiture of the circuit lease.

The parties have also reached agreement on the terms of the planning agreement required for planning permission to be issued and are finalising arrangements with the Council.

These positive developments, combined with the ongoing encouragement from Formula One rights holder Bernie Ecclestone, demonstrates that DVLL is committed to pushing forward with its 2009 racing plans and 2010 Formula One preparations.

Kevin Wheatcroft of Wheatcroft & Son Limited said: “We are pleased that significant progress has been made in recent weeks and I am delighted that we have now reached an amicable agreement. We have always shared and supported the vision of ensuring that Formula One returns to Donington Park and are hopeful that, with the settlement achieved, that vision will be turned into reality."

DVLL Chief Executive Simon Gillett added: “This is another positive boost for Donington Park. We were always aware that saving the future of the British Grand Prix was an enormous task, but it is one that we are fully committed to and will make happen. So far, all of our efforts have been achieved in the face of adversity and it’s reassuring to know that the Wheatcroft family shares our vision and passion for British motorsport.”

The settlement itself is confidential between the parties and therefore no further comment will be made in this regard.

World Superbike Championship

Round nine – Sunday 28 June – Donington Park

Cal Crutchlow and Eugene Laverty continue their scrap for the World Supersport crown in the home round at Donington Park on Sunday 28 June - currently they head the pack with just nine points between them, however they need to keep an eye on the fast developing threat posed by former champion Kenan Sofuoglu.

Coventry's Crutchlow has the advantage in the standings after the recent American round where he finished third, just adrift of Laverty, in a race won by the Turkish rival with a daring last corner move.

Crutchlow graduated onto the World stage this season after strong race winning performances in British Superbikes and has been a top three finisher in all but one of the seven rounds so far, powering his Yamaha to victory in both Valencia and Monza, amassing 135 points along the way.

That has given him the edge over Parkalgar Honda rider Laverty who has tasted the winner's champagne three times, at Losail in Qatar, then at Assen and Kyalami - despite racking up points in the other races, Laverty is currently second in rhe rankings on 126.

Sofuoglu, the title winner two years ago, the winner of the opening Australian round, and then the most recent, is coming into the frame to regain the crown, after a difficult year in World Superbikes, but now, re-united with his Hannspree Ten Kate Honda, he is back in the groove with his hard-charging riding style.

The World Supersport race provide the action in between the two races counting to the World Superbike Championship being held that afternoon at the Leicestershire circuit in which Noriyuki Haga, riding the factory prepared Ducati will be aiming to tighten his grip on the title chase, which he currently leads by 53 points from Ben Spies.

The former three times American title winner Spies has won seven times so far and will be looking to his Yamaha team-mate Yorkshireman Tom Sykes for tips on riding Donington, a circuit that Sykes knows well from his British Championship racing days.

Sykes is keen for strong results in his first term in the World series, but nothing will come easy among a strong entry that includes last year's double Donington British Superbike race winner and reigning champion Shane Byrne riding Ducati.

Local favourite Leon Haslam, riding Honda, will be looking to score heavily, as will Jonathan Rea, a podium finisher in America.

Advance tickets for adults are available now priced £35 for Sunday and £50 for the weekend.  Advance tickets for accompanied children under 16 years old and are £12.    For further details or to purchase visit www.donington-park.co.uk

Sat/Sun 6/7 June – Donington Park

Don't expect to see Jenson Button in action at Donington Park this weekend as the drivers in the fast-lane of the action are not the household names of the sport.

That however does not detract from the hot action and excitement in the Summer Special Car Racing Festival of club championship racing organised by the Midlands Centre of the BRSCC.

Across the two days there are no less than 22 races to enjoy.

On Saturday, following on from morning practice, which begins at 09.05, there is a hectic ten race programme starting at 13.35 which features the ever popular Mighty Minis together with racing Saloons, Caterhams and Sportscars.

The on Sunday, the racing begins early, with four races for Sportscars and the Mazda MX5 series, starting at 09.30, before a period of qualifying for the afternoon's eight race programme, which, starting at 14.45 provides one-make saloon action from Alfa Romeo, Fiat and Mazda plus more sportscars and Formula Ford action.

Adult admission is £12 on each of Saturday and Sunday. Accompanied children aged under 16 years are admitted free of charge. Parking is free.

MotoGP World Championship - British round

24-25-26 July - Donington Park

 The countdown to one of the most eagerly anticipated events in motorsport - the British round of the 2009 MotoGP World Championship - has begun. To welcome the arrival of the event, which will see Valentino Rossi compete for the last time at the British parkland circuit, Donington Park is giving customers the chance to win a money-can't-buy prize.

 Anybody who purchases tickets to watch the MotoGP action unfold at Donington Park will automatically be entered into a prize draw to win a set of signed James Toseland replica leathers and gloves.

 Between 24-26 July, the MotoGP World Championship will descend on Donington Park as the circuit plays host to a weekend of high-octane action as the biggest names in motorcycling go head-to-head. Once again - and following a difficult first home GP at the circuit last year - the nation's hopes rest with James Toseland, Britain's only representative in the premier class. The double World Superbike Champion will be looking to avenge the misfortune he suffered in 2008 and take the fight to rest of the MotoGP paddock when battle commences at the Leicestershire track.

To order tickets for this amazing spectacle and to be in with a chance of winning this exclusive prize, simply buy online at www.donington-park.co.uk or call 0871 230 7134. The closing date for competition entry is 30 June, but tickets will still be available after this date.

World Superbike Championship – British round

26-27-28 June – Donington Park

Noriyuki Haga might be heading the chase for the World Superbike crown but at Donington Park on Sunday 28 June expect to see the British riders taking centre stage in their home event in the series.

The British round on Sunday 28 June provides the only opportunity to enjoy the action in this buoyant championship in the UK this year.

And, Derbyshire rider Leon Haslam, for one, is keen to fully exploit home advantage.

He has already enjoyed podium finishes this season aboard the Stiggy Honda and he wants to be tasting the victor's champagne in races at the Leicestershire circuit on which he has enjoyed numerous successes over the years.

Haslam, who lives near to the circuit, has packed in thousands of laps at Donington where he still helps as an instructor at the family's Racing Academy.

Jonathan Rea, also riding a Honda Fireblade, in the colours of Hannspree Ten Kate, has also taken top three finishes and is chasing that elusive first victory in the top flight.

Reigning British Champion Shane Byrne is hoping for an upturn in fortunes on his Sterilgarda Ducati at a circuit where last term he enjoyed a winning double, en route to his second domestic title.

Keep an eye on the determined Tom Sykes, riding for the factory Yamaha team, alongside the title chasing American Ben Spies - Yorkshireman Sykes is showing real grit to pack the points on the world stage as his Tommy Hill.

And in the chase for the World Supersport crown, it is an all British affair with Coventry's Cal Crutchlow heading the rankings from Eugene Laverty.

Advance tickets for adults are available now priced £35 for Sunday and £50 for the weekend.  Advance tickets for accompanied children under 16 years old and are £12.    For details or to purchase www.donington-park.co.uk

Round three – Holiday Monday 25 May – Donington Park

ViSK British Superbike Championship in association with Pirelli

Leon Camier aims to continue his winning spree in the third round of the ViSK British Superbike Championship in association with Pirelli at Donington Park on Holiday Monday, 25 May, to tighten his grip on the early season title chase.

He has won the previous three races, opening up an 11 points advantage over Worx Suzuki rider Sylvain Guintoli and believes that the up-rated engines supplied to the team since the previous round should give him extra power to accelerate through the corners.

"The team has been working hard since Oulton Park on developing the race bikes and getting new engines ready, so it'll be great to see how the new package performs," explained Camier.

"Until we get on track it'll be hard to predict how we'll do, but if our top speed is competitive, I think we'll be looking good for some more strong results.

"Heading into this weekend leading the Championship is a great feeling, but it's still early days and we need to continue to learn and improve so that we're still top come the final round in October," added Camier

Guintoli meanwhile has been working hard in a determined bid to get back to winning ways on a circuit he knows from his MotoGP racing days.

"Since the last round we have been testing, putting in many laps and I was also able to practice my starts - I think it is very important to do that," said the Leicestershire based Frenchman whose sluggish get-aways in races have left him playing catch-up.

"I have now changed my technique and we also have some new parts which will make a difference as well so I think my start should be better now," added Guintoli. "The racing this weekend will be very close and I can see many battles."

Certain to be involved in those will be Glen Richards riding HM Plant Honda and Karl Harris aboard the Hydrex Honda with James Ellison on the second Airwaves Yamaha coming in the reckoning.

"I can't wait to get to Donington Park. I love the circuit and it's always been a favourite of mine," said Ellison. "I went into the previous round feeling confident but we made quite slow progress on bike set-up and it wasn't until the second race that a change to the gearing saw us make a huge leap forward.

After the second race at Oulton Park, I now understand the bike much better and so I'll be aiming to be at the front of the field more consistently from now on," added Ellison.

Around the two Superbike races on Monday are races counting to the Fuchs-Silkolene British Supersport, Relentless British 125GP; Metzeler National Superstock 600 and 1000; 250GP ACU National and Focused Events KTM RC8 SuperCup series.

Practice for all classes is through Saturday 23 May with the Superbike grid deciding Swan Combi 50 Roll for Pole on Sunday 24 May with in late afternoon KTM RC8 and Superstock 600 ‘Shoot-out' race.  Main raceday is Monday 25 May.

Adult admission is Saturday £10, Sunday £13, Monday (onday) £28 (advance £23) or purchase advance weekend ticket for all three days for £29. Accompanied children aged 15 years and under are admitted FREE of charge. All car parking FREE.

Advance tickets and details of all Donington Park events: www.donington-park.co.uk

Round three - Holiday Monday 25 May - Donington Park

ViSK British Superbike Championship in association with Pirelli

Jon Kirkham powers into his home round of the ViSK British Superbike Championship in association with Pirelli at Donington Park on Holiday Monday 25 May determined to repay the hard work of his Jentin Yamaha team with strong performances.

The rider from nearby Derby hopes to be mixing it with early season title chasers Leon Camier, aboard the Airwaves Yamaha, and Sylvain Guintoli, riding the Worx Crescent Suzuki, to move back into contention for the country's premier crown.

Kirkham knows that it will not be easy, but, he has a good pedigree at the Leicestershire circuit and he is intent on using that knowledge to good effect in the two 20 lap races on the full grand prix circuit.

"Donington Park is a good track for me, it is my local circuit and I did take a win there last year in the R1 Cup. It is fast and flowing so we need to try and make as much improvement as we can so that we can really challenge," reflected Kirkham.

Together with his team, he will be making strenuous efforts to ensure his bike is running up front as he explained: "The whole team are flat out, I am training really hard and we want to improve our results at the next two rounds.

"The team are working really hard to improve the new Yamaha, but time has been against us in the opening rounds. I know that we need to work really hard at Donington Park," added Kirkham.

Chris Walker will echo those sentiments as he prepares for races that could kick-start his campaign - the four times runner-up in the series has, like Kirkham started steadily, something that the Nottingham rider is keen to put right.

He rides for the Motorpoint Henderson Yamaha team, under the management of former champion Rob McElnea, and Walker will be gunning for a first podium finish of the term so far in his game of catch-up on the leaders.

Camier arrives at Donington as the real ‘form-man' having won the last three races, and that leaves him 11 points clear of opening race winner, the MotoGP exile Sylvain Guintoli with HM Plant Honda's Glen Richards third in the rankings, a couple of points up on Sheffield rider Karl Harris.

Around the two Superbike races on Monday are races counting to the Fuchs-Silkolene British Supersport, Relentless British 125GP; Metzeler National Superstock 600 and 1000; 250GP ACU National and Focused Events KTM RC8 SuperCup series.

Practice for all classes is through Saturday 23 May with the Superbike grid deciding Swan Combi 50 Roll for Pole on Sunday 24 May with in late afternoon KTM RC8 and Superstock 600 ‘Shoot-out' race.  Main raceday is Monday 25 May.

Adult admission is Saturday £10, Sunday £13, Monday (onday) £28 (advance £23) or purchase advance weekend ticket for all three days for £29. Accompanied children under 16 years old are admitted FREE of charge. All car parking FREE.

Advance tickets and details of all Donington Park events: www.donington-park.co.uk

Round three - Holiday Monday 25 May - Donington Park

ViSK British Superbike Championship in association with Pirelli

Sylvain Guintoli regards Donington Park as his local circuit in terms of the ViSK British Superbike Championship in association with Pirelli and the Frenchman who lives nearby is aiming for nothing short of victories in the Holiday Monday 25 May third round.

My aim is to get back in the championship lead; I don't want to be second," said the Worx Crescent Suzuki rider who after winning on his debut into the series has had to settle for three top three finishes in races won by Airwaves Yamaha's Leon Camier.

The run of form by Camier has put him 11 points up on Guintoli, but the Frenchman reckons his knowledge of the Leicestershire circuit gained from him previous MotoGP career will give him the edge.

"The good thing about is that it is going to be easier from the start compared to the previous round at Oulton Park where I had to learn the circuit," explained Guintoli who finished in the points in last year's British Grand Prix at Donington.

"I will be able to get into a rhythm straight away as I know the track whereas at the last round we couldn't get up to race pace straight away. I really like Donington Park so we should be able to see the best of both myself and the bike .

"Leon is going to be strong there but so are many of the other riders but it is a strong track for Suzuki, so it is looking good, and I want to be back at the front," added Guintoli.

Camier will have something to say about that, as will Glen Richards riding HM Plant Honda, currently third in the rankings, but so far still to taste the winner's champagne. 

The best result so far for the Aussie is a second in the opening race, and he left Oulton Park with a pair of top six finishes, performances he was no happy with: "I need to go away from this round and get my head totally dialled in to where I need to be and then be back ready to challenge for the podium at Donington," said Richards who in the past two years has won both the SUperstock and Supersport titles.

Adding to the front running action is sure to be Yorkshireman Karl Harris aboard the Hydrex Honda with James Ellison on the second Airwaves Yamaha in close contention amid this big on quality and quantity entry for the country's premier racing series.

Around the two 20 lap Superbike races on the full Grand Prix circuit on Monday are races counting to the Fuchs-Silkolene British Supersport, Relentless British 125GP; Metzeler National Superstock 600 and 1000; 250GP ACU National and Focused Events KTM RC8 SuperCup series.

Practice for all classes is through Saturday 23 May with the Superbike grid deciding Swan Combi 50 Roll for Pole on Sunday 24 May with in late afternoon KTM RC8 and Superstock 600 ‘Shoot-out' race.  Main raceday is Monday 25 May.

Adult admission is Saturday £10, Sunday £13, Monday (onday) £28 (advance £23) or purchase advance weekend ticket for all three days for £29. Accompanied children aged under 16 years old are admitted FREE of charge. All car parking FREE.

Advance tickets and details of all Donington Park events: www.donington-park.co.uk

The Motorcycle Circuit Racing Control Board (MCRCB) has today granted a track licence to Donington Park, which will enable the forthcoming British Superbike Championship on 23-25 May, to go ahead as planned.

The licence permission follows a thorough inspection of the track at Leicestershire's parkland circuit by MCRCB Chairman Dennis Carter and Safety Delegate Norman Williamson at 2pm today.

The purpose of the visit was to ensure that the track layout adheres to all current industry safety regulations.

"We're delighted at the outcome of the track inspection and can now look ahead to our exciting calendar of two-wheeled events, which kicks off with the third round of the British Superbike Championship next weekend," says Donington Park Chief Executive Officer Simon Gillett.

"The domestic Superbike series is traditionally regarded as one of the most competitive in the world, so we're bound to see some closely-fought action when the teams come to Donington Park over the Bank Holiday weekend."  

Entrance tickets to the 2009 British Superbike Championship are on sale at www.donington-park.co.uk. Alternatively, please call 01332 810048 for advance and grandstand tickets.

A lucky primary school class of 27 children are revving up for the weekend as they visit Donington Park tomorrow.

Orchard Community Church of England Primary School in Castle Donington, has scooped the enviable prize of an exclusive VIP visit to the HiQ MSA British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) at Donington Park this weekend.

Orchard was one of eight schools in the Leicester, Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire areas to take part in the regional competition which invited teachers to battle it out in a head-to-head challenge to set the fastest lap in a life size British Touring Car simulator.

Deputy Head teacher, Mr Patching, or ‘Mr P' as he is known by his Year 8 class, won the challenge by setting a 2:02.90 lap time and will now take his class of 27 to Donington Park tomorrow to enjoy their well-deserved VIP afternoon. The children will be treated to a visit of the garages during Friday's practice session, have the opportunity to meet some of the leading drivers and get a behind the scenes look at the action, before the event kicks off on Saturday.

Mr Patching said: "The children and I are delighted to have won this special prize - what a great experience for us all to be part of one of the most exciting race weekends of the year!"

"Congratulations to Mr Patching and his class at Orchard Primary - we're thrilled to offer them the chance to come up to the circuit and experience the build up to the BTCC." said Donington Park Marketing Manager Vikki Wellington. "Many thanks to all of the local schools who took part in the challenge too - we had a great response!".

This year's BTCC event will be the last one to run on the current track configuration, which will be extended for 2010 as part of the ongoing redevelopment programme at the parkland circuit. This weekend's HiQ MSA British Touring Car triple race event is set to attract several thousand visitors and will see local favourites Stephen Jelley, Adam Jackson and Matt Jackson fight for the crown.

Round 3 – Donington Park – 23/24/25 May

ViSK British Superbike Championship in association with Pirelli

Leon Camier is the form man in the early season chase for the ViSK British Superbike Championship in association with Pirelli having won three of the four races so far but the Airwaves Yamaha rider can take nothing for granted as he goes into Donington Park's double race third round on Holiday Monday 25 May.

The Leicestershire based Frenchman Sylvain Guintoli will be pushing him hard, determined to add to his opening race victory aboard the Worx Suzuki as he rides a circuit that he knows well from his time in MotoGP action.

Guintoli goes into the races determined to peg back the 11 points by which he trails Camier, but the action will be far more than a private scrap for supremacy with locally based Aussie Glen Richards determined to taste the winner's champagne for the first time this term.

In the past two years, he was won the British Superstock and Supersport titles and now riding for HM Plant Honda, Richards, currently third in the rankings is eager to add Superbikes to his collection.

It promises to be a fascinating battle, fought out over the full Grand Prix circuit with a packed grid of high powered Superbikes including Derby's Jon Kirkham and Nottingham's former four times runner-up in the series Chris Walker. 

Add to that heady mix Honda's second Aussie ace, Josh Brookes, who is aiming for a career first Superbike victory on a circuit where he has a good pedigree: "Last year I won the World Supersport race there and it has always been a good circuit for me in the past so I am looking forward to getting back out there."

Around the two Superbike races there are rounds counting to the Fuchs-Silkolene British Supersport; Relentless British 125GP; Metzeler National SUperstock 1000 and 600; KTM RC8 SuperCup and British 250cc championships.

Practice for all classes is through Saturday 23 May with the Superbike grid deciding Swan Combi 50 Roll for Pole on Sunday 24 May.  All races are on Monday 25 May.

Adult admission is Saturday £10, Sunday £13, Monday (onday) £28 (advance £23) or purchase advance weekend ticket for all three days for £29. Accompanied children under 16 years old are admitted FREE of charge. All car parking FREE.

Advance tickets and details of all Donington Park events: www.donington-park.co.uk

Matt Neal might be leading the pack in the chase for the HiQ MSA British Touring Car title but as he goes into this Sunday's third round at Donington Park he knows that his biggest rival for supremacy will be his own Vauxhall VXR team-mate Fabrizio Giovanardi.

"Out of all the people I've raced against and alongside, I must speak very highly of Fabrizio. You think you have a good lap in your pocket and he'll find something extra nine times out of ten," reflected Neal.

"You have to be having a very good day to be with him, never mind edge in front of him. You only have to view his racing CV to confirm this.

"As for leading the championship at the moment, that is great but really means nothing. It's October time you need to be saying the same," added Neal who is returning to race at a circuit that has seen some of his greatest triumphs.

In1999 he scooped £250,000 for beating all the manufacturer teams' drivers as an independent, becoming the first independent to win a championship race outright and in 2005 he achieved two wins in a day to kick-start what would be a title-winning season which he followed up with a second straight crown in 2006.

"Donington is one of the closest tracks to where I live, so it's great to have friends and family around. It's also the place of our £250k big one back in '99, so does hold a lot of special memories for me. I like the circuit lay-out, too - it has a good mixture of everything.

"Any member of public who has been to a BTCC round at Donington knows they are in for a very exciting and action-packed day. For anyone thinking of giving it a go, the level of entertainment and racing spectacle is unrivalled. The closeness, the noise and speed - it's a fantastic day out for the whole family with three BTCC races and cracking support championships racing through the day as well," added Neal.  

The entry for the three BTCC races is particularly strong, making for plenty of thrills along the way, and around this feature action there are races counting to the Porsche Carrera Cup, Ginetta G50 Cup, Ginetta Junior series; Formula Renault and Elf Renault Clio Cup.

Practice and qualifying for all classes is from 09.05 on Saturday 16 May with two races during the afternoon counting to the Ginetta G50 Cup and the Elf Renault Clio Cup.  Then, it is racing through Sunday 17 May from 09.10.

Adult admission is £13 on Saturday and on Sunday £29 on day, or £23 in advance. Adult advance weekend tickets £28. To book advance tickets, go to www.donington-park.co.uk.

Accompanied children aged under 16 years old admitted Free of charge. All car parking is Free.

Rob Collard goes into Donington Park's third round of the HiQ MSA British Touring Car Championship this Sunday 17 May playing catch-up on the series leading Matt Neal and the Airwaves BMW driver knows that nothing short of victory will suffice.

In the opening round of the series, Collard took a victory and was well on the pace in the other two races but then he struggled to maintain that form on his local Thruxton circuit last time out and that leaves him 27 points down on Team VXR Vauxhall driver Neal who is something of a Donington specialist.

"We really want to get back on the front foot at Donington and score well," said Collard. "I think that we will be a lot stronger and it is important that I pick up as many points as possible.

"I can put myself right back in the title chase with a good performance,"  added Collard who is one of the six drivers to enjoy the victor's champagne so far in what it proving to be a vintage year for the series.

Neal holds the early advantage in the title chase, by ten points from BMW driver Colin Turkington who is counting on his Leicester based team-mate Stephen Jelley to help his cause by racking up high scoring points finishes.

"I'm happy to be racing at Donington, my home circuit, after the recent uncertainties, as it is a circuit that I really enjoy driving," enthused Jelley who is looking forward to a repeat of his duels of the last round with Neal, Jason Plato and reigning title holder Fabrizio Giovanardi.

"There are not many championships where you can race against three title holders - it really is a very competitive line-up," added Jelley.

The entry for the three BTCC races is particularly strong, making for plenty of thrills along the way, and around this feature action there are races counting to the Porsche Carrera Cup, Ginetta G50 Cup, Ginetta Junior series; Formula Renault and Elf Renault Clio Cup.

Practice and qualifying for all classes is from 09.05 on Saturday 16 May with two races during the afternoon counting to the Ginetta G50 Cup and the Elf Renault Clio Cup.  Then, it is racing through Sunday 17 May from 09.10.

Adult admission is £13 on Saturday and on Sunday £29 on day, or £23 in advance. Adult advance weekend tickets £28. To book advance tickets, go to www.donington-park.co.uk.

Accompanied children aged under 16 years old are admitted Free of charge. All car parking is Free.

The early season scrap for the HiQ MSA British Touring Car crown intensifies in this Sunday's (17 May) triple race third round at Donington Park with the local favourite Matt Neal bidding to extend his slender ten points advantage.

Pushing the Team VXR Vauxhall driver hard at the Leicestershire circuit will be Colin Turkington at the wheel of a BMW but in a series that has produced six different winning drivers in as many races so far, no-one is taking anything for granted.

Defending champion Fabrizio Giovanardi, like Neal and Turkington, is chasing a second victory as he plays catch-up in the title stakes, currently placed third in the standings, and just ahead of two other drivers to have already tasted the winner's champagne, Robert Collard and Jason Plato.

Mat Jackson, the sixth driver to have won, goes into the races aiming for consistent finishes to move him back into contention, but, he, along with everyone else will be checking out the form of former champion James Thompson who returned to BTCC action in the second round at Thruxton.

The Yorkshireman, who has a strong pedigree at the circuit having clinched both of his British titles there in 2002 and 2004, will be driving the Team Dynamics' Honda Civic and he reckons he could be on to a winner: "My gut feeling is that the Honda will go better at Donington. The car is already very good - it just needs refining. It's very good on the brakes and also has a good engine which is what you need at Donington.

"I've got some great memories at Donington and I'm really looking forward to racing there after a few years away. I've won races there in European and British touring cars and it's a circuit that always provides good racing and is a great spectator venue. I'd easily anticipate this being one of the most exciting rounds of the year," added Thompson.

The entry for the three BTCC races is particularly strong, making for plenty of thrills along the way, and around this feature action there are races counting to the Porsche Carrera Cup, Ginetta G50 Cup, Ginetta Junior series; Formula Renault and Elf Renault Clio Cup.

Practice and qualifying for all classes is from 09.05 on Saturday 16 May with two races during the afternoon counting to the Ginetta G50 Cup and the Elf Renault Clio Cup.  Then, it is racing through Sunday 17 May from 09.10.

Adult admission is £13 on Saturday and on Sunday £29 on day, or £23 in advance. Adult advance weekend tickets £28. To book advance tickets, go to www.donington-park.co.uk.

Accompanied children aged under 16 years old admitted Free of charge. All car parking is Free.

The regulatory bodies of motor sport have given the go-ahead for car racing to resume at Donington Park with immediate effect.

Officials of the worldwide and British governing bodies have inspected the Leicestershire circuit and confirmed that the various works required to meet their criteria had been satisfactorily completed.

This gives the green-light for the Masters Historic Racing Festival to go ahead tomorrow (sat) and Sunday and the HiQ MSA British Touring Car Championship will be held as scheduled over the weekend  of 16/17^th May..

Following the agreement of plans at the beginning of May, work on-site has been continuing around the clock to ensure that four-wheel racing will resume at the circuit. The licence is just rewards for the Herculean efforts of all staff and contractors at the venue and is another positive move in the right direction, despite ongoing scepticism and speculation about Donington Park and the circuit's owners.

It is the second piece of good news received this week by Donington Ventures Leisure Ltd (DVLL) - the company that holds a 150-year lease for the circuit. Tuesday saw the North West Leicestershire District Council extend the deadline for the signing of a Section 106 agreement, in accordance with Donington Park's planning permission for a £100 million redevelopment programme, until 30 June 2009.

DVLL Chief Executive and circuit owner Simon Gillett said: "It's great to be delivering on our promises to fans and competitors by staging the forthcoming car racing events at Donington Park as planned. We always knew that we would face challenges with the ongoing redevelopment project, but remained confident that these would be challenges that we were capable, as a team of people, of tackling and successfully defeating.

"Our negotiations with the MSA have seen us bend over backwards to accommodate their requirements to ensure that the fans and competitors don't miss out on witnessing live racing action at the UK's premier motorsport circuit. However, this is one milestone in an ongoing plan that will enable us to turn our vision for Donington Park into reality.

Advance tickets for Donington Park race meetings are available on www.donington-park.co.uk or by calling 0871 230 7134.

Matt Neal has a strong Donington Park pedigree and the Worcestershire driver is aiming to build on that as he powers his factory backed Team VXR Racing Vauxhall into the triple race third round of the HiQ MSA British Touring Car Championship on Sunday 17 May at the Leicestershire circuit.

Neal heads the pack after the first two rounds of the country's premier series and is keen to build on his win at Brands Hatch and four subsequent podium finishes at a Donington circuit that holds special memories for him.

Back in 1999, and still a ‘privateer' driver taking on the might of the manufacturer teams, he scorched to victory at the parkland circuit, collecting a cash jackpot of £250,000 in the process - that was the first of his 31 victories in the series, and now Neal is gunning for more.

He needs to be at his best, taking a narrow six points lead over Team RAC BMW driver Colin Turkington into the races, but the opposition does not stop there, with Neal not expecting any favours from his team-mate, defending champion Fabrizio Giovanardi who is keen to get back on top of the ratings.

Jason Plato adds further spice to the confrontation at the wheel of the Racing Silverline Chevrolet Lacetti while James Thompson, another Donington specialist will be at the sharp-end of the pack in his Honda Civic run by Pershore-based Team Dynamics. Thompson, twice the winner of the series, clinched both of those crowns, in 2002 and 2004, and the circuit.

Adding to the Midlands interest in the races, Henley-in-Arden's Mat Jackson, driving the RML Chevrolet is one of seven drivers who has tasted the winner's champagne in this highly competitive series, and he is eager for more.

The BTCC's current entry list is arguably the most competitive in a decade. And three more drivers, all local to the circuit are determined to add their names to the roster of race-winners. Leicester's Stephen Jelley, RAC BMW, Lichfield's Andrew Jordan, Team VXR and Coventry's Adam Jones  in the Cartridge World Carbon Zero SEAT Leon.

And, for all race-goers there is the chance to meet the drivers in the BTCC Pit-lane Walkabout held on raceday, taking those special photographs, getting autographs not to mention collecting the team give-away goodies.

Around the feature touring car action there is a big programme of exciting, thrill a minute races featuring Ginetta sportscars, the exotic and expensive Porshces and both Formula Renault and Renault Clio racing.

Qualifying for BTCC is during Saturday 16 May, with all races on Sunday 17 May - money saving advance tickets are available now by checking www.donington-park.co.uk.

Donington Park has today quashed doubt surrounding the forthcoming Masters Historic Racing and HiQ MSA BritishTouring Car Championship (BTCC) events at the circuit following an agreement with the Motor Sports Association (MSA) last night.

Following weeks of dialogue with the MSA – the UK’s governing body of motorsport – plans, supported by drawings, for the run-off area between McLeans and Coppice were last night agreed. MSA Technical Director John Symes will formally inspect the track at Leicestershire’s parkland circuit on Thursday 7 May to ensure that it is in accordance with agreed plans. His purpose will be to grant the track licence for that weekend’s Masters Historic Racing Classic and the subsequent weekend’s premier motor racing event, BTCC.

The agreement is a further signal of circuit owner Simon Gillett and his team’s commitment to UK race fans and the British motorsport industry. “In all of the decisions that we have had to make about these events, we have always put the fans and competitors at the heart of them, because it is to them that we have a duty first and foremost,” said Gillett.

“I understand that seeds of doubt may have started to set in among fans and competitors as a result of our silence to date, but we are not in the business of raising false hopes and we are only happy to speak publicly about agreed facts. However, it’s disappointing that race fans were being given the impression that Donington Park is putting British motorsport in jeopardy, because nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, we are bending over backwards to ensure that safe racing is on track at Donington Park as quickly as possible.

“That has meant additional work and costs on our part, and our contractors Amphion are working 24 hours a day to ensure that race fans will once again witness live, thrilling action next weekend with the Masters Historic Racing event. Our main concern is the future and in ensuring that our forthcoming events in May are a huge success for all involved. We have ongoing communication with the directors of both car race series that will host events at Donington Park in May and we are all working positively together for the benefit of the fans and competitors.”

Christopher Tate, Director of Masters Historic Racing said: “With drivers and fans coming from all over UK and Europe to race and spectate at this, the third annual Masters event at Donington, we are just delighted that Simon and his team, working with our governing body at MSA, have come up with these solutions. It is very much appreciated by all of us. Next weekend, we are also raising funds for a great cause, “Help for Heroes”, and will admit free HM Forces personnel enjoying their first sight of historic racing, so this news is excellent in every way.”

BTCC Series Director Alan Gow added: “The Donington team have worked long and hard to get the circuit prepared for our race event on 17 May and we thank them for their tireless efforts. Looking ahead to the BTCC’s visit there in just over a fortnight, I believe the crowds are in for one of the most exhilarating fixtures of the BTCC calendar. We’ve had six different winners from our first six races of 2009 and Donington always delivers some of the most exciting and best-viewed action of the season. Our teams, drivers and sponsors go there fully intending to put on the very best show possible and to give the race day public an event to savour.”

To buy your tickets for the Masters Historic Racing and BTCC events. Please visit www.donington-park.co.uk or telephone 0871 2307134.

Donington Park has today received firm confirmation and assurance from British Superbike Championship (BSB) organisers, MSVR, that the third round of the 2009 series will proceed at the circuit on Spring Bank Holiday weekend (23-25 May). Donington Ventures Leisure Limited (DVLL) has submitted a signed contract for the event and payment has been accepted by MSVR.

Donington Park contractors Amphion have submitted written confirmation that all required works will be completed ahead of 21 May, in time for the scheduled MCRCB inspection.

The news quashes recent rumours including the potential movement of the third round of BSB to an alternative circuit. Donington Park is a world class venue, the home of the British round of the MotoGP and World Superbike championships.  It is likely that any potential World Superbike wild cards will be keen to race at Donington Park BSB to gather experience, which will help to provide a competitive advantage. Being unable to support the world aspirations of British riders in the domestic series would have been potentially devastating for all concerned.

"We're delighted that we have been able to reach an amicable agreement with MSVR to continue to host the third round of the 2009 British Superbike Championship in May," said Donington Park circuit owner Simon Gillett. "Our main priority was not to let the fans down, so it's satisfying to see our hard work behind the scenes paying off."

Entrance tickets to the 2009 British Superbike Championship are  on sale at www.donington-park.co.uk. Alternatively, please call 0871 2307134 for advance and grandstand tickets.  

Donington Park staff have confirmed that, for the foreseeable future, it is a case of "business as usual" as they re-commence their full programme of race meetings in mid-May.

The Grand Prix Master event, with its array of F1 cars and high powered sportcars, remains on schedule to go-ahead over 9/10 May and the following weekend, the HiQ British Touring Car Championship is set to power into the circuit.

Completing a hectic month, the third round of the ViSK British Superbike Championship is planned to be hosted over Spring Bank Holiday, 23/24/25 May.

The two feature events of the calendar, bringing world championship racing to the Park with World Superbikes and MotoGP, will go ahead as scheduled.

The British, and only round of the World Superbike series in the UK, will be held on 26/27/28 June with Noriyuki Haga and ‘rookie' Ben Spies continuing their duel for supremacy.

And the following month, 24/25/26 July, the sport's elite riders, led by eight times World Champion Valentino Rossi and including local hero James Toseland, will be in action in the British MotorCycle Grand Prix.

Race fans and competitors are assured that the scheduled programme of car, motorcycle and truck racing also continues as planned.

Following ongoing liaison with motorsport's organising bodies and media speculation surrounding track licence issues, Donington Park has today confirmed changes to its 2009 event calendar and issued a full apology to competitors, enthusiasts and organisers affected by the changes.

This weekend's Formula Palmer Audi is the first event that will not run in 2009, following a full cancellation by the event organisers. Next weekend's British F3/GT Championships has been postponed with an agreement to work toward a new event date later in 2009. Meanwhile, the May Bank Holiday Britcar series and the Aston Martin Owners Club event on 4 May have both been cancelled.

The cancellations and postponement have been agreed as a result of safety concerns raised by some of the event organisers following work on a new tunnel between Macleans and Coppice at the Leicestershire parkland circuit. Staff at Donington Park are continuing to liaise with all relevant parties to ensure that there is no further disruption to the 2009 calendar and to try to agree solutions for re-scheduled events.

Plans to address the run off areas surrounding the track above the tunnel have already been submitted to the FIA and feedback is expected later this week.

Simon Gillett, Chief Executive: "Firstly, I would like to apologise wholeheartedly to anybody affected by these cancellations and postponements. As a motorsport enthusiast myself, I understand how disappointing it is to miss out on an event that you've been looking forward to for months.  I also understand the level of work and financial commitment from organisers. I am working extremely hard with my team to minimise any disruption to this year's calendar and to provide solutions where possible."

Staff at the circuit were also keen to stress that the cancellations and postponements are restricted to the specifically named events and any developments will be reported at www.donington-park.co.uk. All other scheduled track activity and non-race events are still proceeding as usual.

SRO Motorsports Group regrets to announce that the British F3 and British GT meeting planned for the Donington Park circuit for the weekend of 25 and 26 April is to be postponed to a summer date.

A new date for the Donington meeting, which will play host to rounds of the Cooper Tires British F3 International Series, Avon Tyres British GT Championship and supporting championships, will be confirmed within a few days.

SRO is announcing the decision to postpone in the interests of competitors, says SRO Motorsports Group General Manager Bernadette Fitzsimons: "The issues surrounding the problems at Donington are well known. We have worked hard with Donington's management to find a solution, with discussions between us, Donington, the FIA and the MSA not yet concluded, we must move to end the uncertainty.

"We are confident Donington will resolve its problems soon, and we look forward as always to visiting what is one of the country's top circuits and to putting on a great show there."

Saturday/Sunday 18/19 April

Donington Park's car race programme continues with this all action two day meeting which features the opening races in the Formula Palmer Audi championship.

The ‘Blast in the Park' will be provided by these fast moving single seaters and their aspiring Grand Prix drivers who will be testing their skills in this big on ability series which boasts the power of 1.8 turbo Audi power. Early season points are at stake in the three races here as the drivers chase the champion's prize of a £50,000 scholarship towards a drive in Formula 2.

Qualifying for the Formula Palmer Audis is 09.30-09.50 and 11.10-11.30 on Saturday morning with the first of the three races starting at 14.25 that afternoon - the other two races, again decided over 14 laps or 30 minutes, will be held on Sunday, starting at 11.15 and 14.35.

Around these races there is packed supporting programme including one make BMW saloon racing, Lotus Elise Trophy, GT Cup, Toyo Tyres racing saloons and ‘last chance' saloons.

Action starts on Saturday at 09.00 with practice and qualifying followed by three races starting at 13.55, and then on Sunday after morning practice starting at 09.05 the big race-day progamme begins at 10.05. Adult admission on each day is £12. Accompanied children aged 15 years and under are admitted FREE of charge. Car parking is FREE.

"Business as usual" - Saturday/Sunday 4/5 April - Donington Park

They may not be the household names of motorsport but upwards of 500 drivers will be in high-speed action as Donington Park's new season of car racing roars ahead this weekend (4/5 April) with two busy ‘clubbie' meetings.

The MG Car Club provide a varied ten race programme on Saturday, with, naturally, most of the action featuring the sportscars spanning the decades of this legendary marque along with two Porsche races counting to that Club Championship and a half-hour race counting to the Power Torque Morgan Challenge.

Then on Sunday, there is more nostalgic and classic action as the Historic Sports Car Club runs a nine race programme that should be an enthusiast's delight with its mix of saloons - recreating the scraps of the 1970s when Mini Coopers, Ford Anglias and Lotus Cortinas took on the raw power of Ford Mustangs.

Road sports of that era - among them TVRs, Lotus, MGs and Ginettas - will also be put through their paces while in the Guards Trophy expect to see the big, powerful GT and Sports Racing Cars.

Classic racing cars, predating the era of slicks and wings, bring predominantly F2 and F3 single seaters to the parkland Leicestershire circuit with Formula Fords, Formula Junior adding to the thrills.

These two car race meetings follow on from the highly successful MotoSix Motorcycle Racing Team challenge of the previous weekend underlining Donington Park's "business as usual" approach to a year in which major redevelopment works are being carried out ahead of the staging of the FIA British Formula One Grand Prix in July 2010.

Racing on Saturday begins at 11.40, following morning practice from 09.00 and on Sunday racing commences at 13.30 following practice from 09.05. Adult admission on each day is £12 with accompanied children aged 15 years and under admitted FREE of charge. All car parking is FREE of charge.

Primary schools within Leicestershire, Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire are being invited to take part in a head-to-head competition to win an exclusive VIP visit to the HiQ MSA British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) event on the weekend of 15-17 May. The lucky winners will enjoy a visit to the garages during Friday's practice session, have the opportunity to meet some of the leading drivers and get a behind the scenes look at the action.

The first three schools from each county to register interest in the Touring Car challenge will be entered into the head-to-head battle, which will see a life size British Touring Car simulator visit the school in April. Only one class per school - with children aged between eight and 11 - will be allowed to enter the competition and interest must be registered by the class or head teacher.

All children will be treated to the simulator experience, but it will be the class teacher who really feels the pressure as the teacher who sets the fastest lap of the existing Donington Park circuit in the Ford Focus will win the coveted prize for their pupils. Each child in a qualifying class will also be presented with a free entry ticket for the BTCC race weekend.

This year's BTCC event will be the last one to run on the current track configuration, which will be extended for 2010 as part of the ongoing redevelopment programme at the parkland circuit.

To enter, a teacher or head teacher from a school within the three specified counties must contact Rebecca Brocklesby on 01652 682881. The first three schools to respond from each county will enter into the one-hour qualifying challenge with a one in nine chance of winning the final prize. Each entering school must be able to obtain parental consent from each child and give permission for photography for publicity purposes.

"We're very excited about this forthcoming opportunity," said Donington Park Marketing Manager Vikki Wellington "and we believe that this is a great opportunity for local schools. "The BTCC organisers invite one school each year to the VIP experience but this is ordinarily done by random selection and we thought that this provided a much more fun and fair approach to selection."

Alastair Seeley was the hero of the Northern Ireland team as he powered in a winning treble to ease them to success in the inaugural MotoSix Nations Motorcycle Challenge at Donington Park.

The Carrickfergus rider had the edge in the two Supersport races, the first of which had early problems with a couple of red flags before Jack Kennedy, racing for Eire, made the running but Seeley had the answer, carving ahead to grab the lead at half distance and this gave his team the all important first victory.

Then next time out aboard his Yamaha R6, Seeley was on the pace from the off, but again Kennedy hounded him, briefly nudging ahead in the closing stages, but again the Ulsterman had the telling edge, finishing just ahead of his teamster Marty Nutt with Kennedy third.

Nottingham's Richard Cooper battled back for England, making Seeley work throughout the ten lap Superbike race around the full grand prix circuit, with the two duelling intensely throughout and at the flag, just 0.07secs was between them.

Seeley had won three of the four solo races and was running strong to complete a clean sweep but again there was the threat of Cooper, also riding Yamaha, and this time he nosed ahead and managed to hold the upper-hand for long periods and though Seeley countered, it was the local who took the victory.

It was a great effort by Cooper and Derby's Darren Bellworthy helped the cause with twelfth and eleventh placings but the Northern Ireland team were packing the placings as they closed in on the trophy.

Brian Peddar and Rod Steadman, with a winning Sidecar double, gave England hope but again the Ulstermen were running well with John Clarke and Stuart Graham twice second and that made the telling difference as Northern Ireland took the title.

"That was a really great event and I think the trump card for us was my experience around here," said Seeley, who for good measure had also won both of the supporting Pro-Bike races. "It's just like football, when you are playing for your country, everyone wants the best. We all worked well together and we'll be back for more next year."

Donington Park's Robert Fearnall confirmed that MotoSix will be continue at the circuit for the foreseeable future: "It has been a great success and the event has a long term future here. The racing has been intense and we will make it even better in the future - we've learned things and will build for the future.

"This has been superb competition, the federations have supported it strongly and the spirit among the teams brilliant," he added. Those sentiments were shared by Jim Parker of the AutoCycle Union: "Very good, there has been tremendous interest and we look forward to doing it again next year - the sport needs new innovative ideas. The six national teams really got involved, got into the spirit of it, and made it work."

MotoSix Nations Team Challenge – Donington Park – Sat/Sun 28/29 March

Tim Reeves, the former three times winner of the Superside World Sidecar title, will bidding for glory in the inaugural running of the MotoSix Nations Team Challenge which is being held at Donington Park over the weekend of Saturday/Sunday 28/29 March.

The event has teams of riders in Supersport, Superbike and Sidecar in action battling for overall glory in a contest that features six nations: England, Wales, Scotland, the Isle of Man, Northern Ireland and the Irish Republic.

Reeves, together with passenger Patrick Farrance, narrowly missed out retaining the World crown for a fourth term in a season that also saw them make a stunning Isle of Man TT debut, finishing  in third place, and it is that speed and style that the Northern Ireland team believe will see off a particularly strong attack.

Reeves, by the way, is now based in Lisburn and races on a licence issued by the local federation which provides the opportunity for him to represent Northern Ireland  in the two ten lap races on Sunday against an experienced field that includes Manxman Dave Molyneux, the record 13 times Isle of Man TT winner,  who has Daniel Sayle riding alongside him.

Nick Crowe, five times a TT winner, also represents the Isle of Man and he is partnered by Mark Cox, but, the English team is ready and waiting, with local favourites, the Birchall brothers, Ben and Tom keen to make their mark.  They know the circuit well and will be looking for strong support from their hometown of Mansfield while Lincolnshire duo Gary Horspole-Scott Parnell along with Simon Neary and Stu Bond should pack the placings.

Each country has four sidecar crews racing for them and six riders in each of the two solo classes. Derby’s Darren Bellworthy, the winner of seven club titles in recent years, and riding Suzuki, expects to set the pace in the Superbike races, again decided over ten laps of the 2.5mile Leicestershire Grand Prix circuit.

Bellworthy can count on the strong riding of Nottingham’s Richard Cooper along with Alastair Fagan to boost the English team in what promise to be hotly contested affairs with Scotsmen Jimmy Storrar and Keith Amor vying for victory, not forgetting the versatile Marshall Neil and Alastair Seeley riding for Northern Ireland. Brian McCormack heads up the Irish Republic challenge, with Phil Bevan in the reckoning for Wales while Chris Palmer and Gavin Hunt should score well for the Isle of Man.

Lincolnshire rider Sam Lowes, back in domestic action after a year riding Euro-Superstock, should pack the power in the Supersport races with Jack Kennedy and McCormack strong for the Irish Republic. The Manx team will be looking to Mark Cringle and Hunt with Bruce Birnie flying the Scottish flag. Michael Pearson and Marty Nutt head up the Northern Ireland challenge with Justin Collins and Dean Richards among a good looking Welsh team.

Practice and qualifying, from 09.00, for the MotoSix races, and others,  is on Saturday, with from 15.15 that afternoon four races for the Lansdowne Classic Cup, British F2 Sidecar Championship, Pro-Bike Open and both the Ducati Desmo Due and Dutch Ducati Dealer Cup series.  Practice begins again at 09.00 on Sunday and around the six MotoSix races there is a packed support race programme, starting at 10.55 with re-runs of the five Saturday races together a round of the ACU Suzuki GSX-R Trophy.

Adult admission is £6 on Saturday and £12 on Sunday. Accompanied children aged fifteen years and under admitted FREE. All car parking FREE. Race-goers should note that due to the major redevelopment works being carried out ahead of the hosting of the FIA British F1 Grand Prix in July next year, access to the circuit will be through the main paddock entrance only. The circuit infield viewing areas will be closed for the 2009 season, but there are still trade facilities and exceptional views from the outer banking areas of the circuit.

Ends

Note to editors: Applications for media accreditation for this event should be made using the ‘one-event’ form which is available on the media centre section of the website www.donington-park.co.uk.

Donington Park – Saturday/Sunday 28/29 March

There is national pride at stake in the all-new MotoSix Nations Motorcycle Racing Challenge which powers the new season at Donington Park into high-speed action over the weekend on 28-29 March.

Riders representing England, Wales, Scotland, the Isle of Man, Northern Ireland and Eire will be battling for glory in Superbike, Supersport and Sidecar races in this team event being decided over the full Leicestershire Grand Prix circuit.

Each of the teams will field six racers, riding in distinctive national colours, in each of the two double race solo events, and four sidecar crews in each of those two races, with points awarded across the whole entry to decide the outcome of the MotoSix Trophy.  Practice for these races starts on Saturday, with the races on Sunday.

The sidecar action should be intense with Mansfield-based Ben and Tom Birchall aiming for maximum points for the England team. They have enjoyed positive tests and are aiming to start a season that also sees them in World Championship action.  Gary Horspole and Scott Parnell should join them in a front-running battle.

They will need to be at their best to counter the threat of Isle of Man team which is boosted by the inclusion of two vastly experienced racers. Dave Molyneux, the 13 times TT winner and race record speed holder on that event, is partnered by Daniel Sayle, while Nick Crowe, the lap record holder on the Mountain Course, has Mark Cox riding shotgun.

Derby’s Darren Bellworthy has built up a strong pedigree with a string of championship successes in club action and together with Nottingham’s Richard Cooper, is aiming to be the dominant force of the Superbike action. Matt Bond, who switches Euro action to the British Superbikes this season, adds further strength in what promise to be hard fought affairs.

Alastair Seeley, Michael Pearson, Denver Robb and Marshall Neill, riding for Northern Ireland, will provide lively opposition with Nigel Hunt and Chris Palmer for the Manx team. Keith Amor, Torquil Paterson and Jimmy Storrar should not be overlooked as they pose threat for Scotland while Brian McCormack, another British Superbike competitor means business for Eire. Meanwhile, Wales will be looking to Kevin Davies, Phil Bevan and Adam Barclay amid a mix of youth and experience in their ranks.

Lincolnshire rider Sam Lowes, returning to British Supersport action after a tough campaign in Euro Superstock along with Doncaster’s Dean Hipwell and the rising force of Jay Lewis, suggest that England will be strong in Supersport action.

Marty Nutt adds to the fire power of the Northern Ireland team which also includes the talented Lee Johnstone and Nikki Coates while Palmer and Hunt are expected to head the Manx threat together with Mark Cringle and Mark Madsen-Mygdal. Amor expects Lewis Farrow and Bruce Birnie to be packing the placings with him for the Scottish team, while Wales will be looking to Dean Richards and Anthony Davies to push them up front.

The action on track begins at 9.00am on both days, with adult admission £6 on Saturday and £12 on Sunday. Accompanied children aged 15 years and under are admitted FREE of charge. Car parking is FREE of charge. Race-goers should note that due to the major redevelopment works being carried out ahead of the hosting of the FIA British F1 Grand Prix in July next year, access to the circuit will be through the main paddock entrance only. The circuit infield viewing areas will be closed for the 2009 season, but there are still trade facilities and exceptional views from the outer banking areas of the circuit.

Ends

Note to editors: Applications for media accreditation for this event should be made using the ‘one-event’ form which is available on the media centre section of the website www.donington-park.co.uk.

While the media spotlight still closely following Donington Park’s redevelopment programme to host the British F1 Grand Prix in July 2010, the Parkland circuit is still very focussed on its forthcoming 2009 calendar of events. The Leicestershire venue will begin its car racing activity in the first weekend of April with an MG club event on Saturday 4^th followed by the Historic Sports Car Club Trophy Races on Sunday 5^th.

The one-day event on the Sunday is an excellent opportunity for enthusiasts to witness the classic saloons, sports cars and single seaters of the 1960s and 1970s in action on track. With points at stake for the club’s array of championships, this event promises drama and excitement.

Tickets for the event are already on sale and provide excellent value for money at just £12 per adult ticket, while children go free. All tickets can be bought in advance at www.donington-park.co.uk or at the gate on the day.

“Donington Park is steeped in motorsport heritage and our ability to stage classic events, such as the Historic Sports Car Club Trophy Races at the same time as developing our venue for next year’s British F1 Grand Prix is what makes us unique,” says circuit owner and Donington Park CEO Simon Gillett. “We are just as proud of our parkland setting as we are of our excellent racing track.

“It is the combination of contrasting factors, such as sustaining our heritage and beautiful location while building state-of-the-art facilities to sit alongside each other that will help us to become one of the world’s leading entertainment venues. We approach each event with the same level of commitment and enthusiasm and we’re very much looking forward to our first car races of 2009.”

Visitors to the circuit and classic car enthusiasts may also enjoy a visit the Donington Park Grand Prix museum. The museum holds an impressive multi-million pound collection of Grand Prix cars – the largest collection in the world with 130 exhibits. The museum is open every day from 10am to 5pm and adult tickets cost just £7 each, while tickets for children aged 16 and under are just £2.50. Other concessions and group discounts are available.

For further details and to apply for media accreditation please contact Dave Fern on 07850 199422

While the media spotlight still closely following Donington Park's redevelopment programme to host the British F1 Grand Prix in July 2010, the Parkland circuit is still very focussed on its forthcoming 2009 calendar of events. The Leicestershire venue will begin its car racing activity in the first weekend of April with an MG club event on Saturday 4th followed by the Historic Sports Car Club Trophy Races on Sunday 5th.

The one-day event on the Sunday is an excellent opportunity for enthusiasts to witness the classic saloons, sports cars and single seaters of the 1960s and 1970s in action on track. With points at stake for the club's array of championships, this event promises drama and excitement.

Tickets for the event are already on sale and provide excellent value for money at just £12 per adult ticket, while children go free. All tickets can be bought in advance at www.donington-park.co.uk or at the gate on the day.

"Donington Park is steeped in motorsport heritage and our ability to stage classic events, such as the Historic Sports Car Club Trophy Races at the same time as developing our venue for next year's British F1 Grand Prix is what makes us unique," says circuit owner and Donington Park CEO Simon Gillett. "We are just as proud of our parkland setting as we are of our excellent racing track.

"It is the combination of contrasting factors, such as sustaining our heritage and beautiful location while building state-of-the-art facilities to sit alongside each other that will help us to become one of the world's leading entertainment venues. We approach each event with the same level of commitment and enthusiasm and we're very much looking forward to our first car races of 2009."

Visitors to the circuit and classic car enthusiasts may also enjoy a visit the Donington Park Grand Prix museum. The museum holds an impressive multi-million pound collection of Grand Prix cars - the largest collection in the world with 130 exhibits.

The museum is open every day from 10am to 5pm and adult tickets cost just £7 each, while tickets for children aged 16 and under are just £2.50. Other concessions and group discounts are available.

Donington Park circuit owner Simon Gillett has reaffirmed the venue’s commitment to motocross in the form of a sponsorship agreement with young rider Tom Johnson. The parkland circuit’s Chief Executive has been unable to stage any off-road events at the Leicestershire venue this year due to the lack of an available track area as a result of the ongoing redevelopment programme, which affects the existing infield area.

However, Gillett, who himself competed in motocross from a young age and competed against the likes of World Champion Jamie Dobb, remains passionate about the sport and is keen to maintain an interest in off-road. He has provided personal support to Tom since his motocross race career began at the tender age of six at Talsarn in West Wales and this year has pledged the circuit’s support to the Monster MX rider.

The now 15-year-old rider will sport black and orange Donington Park decals on his 125 KTM machine, which will be prepared and tuned by Royston Edwards Performance Services (REPS). Enthusiasts will see him in action in the British Silkolene two-stroke championships and other selected national and club championships this season.

“It’s fantastic to be able to offer a greater level of assistance to Tom through Donington Park this year, said Simon. “I was put on a motocross bike at five years old and told to get on with it and I’ve been passionate about the sport ever since. It has been great to be able to personally support Tom for several years, but he is reaching a stage in his career where everything needs to step up a gear, including the commitment from his sponsors.

“The agreement is also an excellent way to reinforce Donington Park’s continued enthusiasm for motocross. I was more gutted than anyone at not being able to stage any off-road events this year, but I am committed to ensuring that we retain our focus on motocross and I’m confident that we’ll once again be staging exciting off-road events in the future.”

Tom’s father, Jez Johnson, commented: “Tom has been lucky enough to have retained long-term support throughout his career from Simon, REPS and kit provider O’Neal and we’re very grateful for that. Simon’s assistance came purely from the fact that he is such a fan of the sport, but we’re delighted that he has now formalised an agreement with Donington Park. It’s an honour to be associated with such a fantastic circuit.”

New Donington Park initiative will create local employment opportunities

Donington Park has opened a training academy for security, spectator safety and associated customer care staff with the intention that it will become one of only seven Centres of Excellence in the country to provide expert tuition leading to industry standard qualifications.

The new venture is based in the circuit’s exhibition centre and is intended to train staff to work primarily at the events held at the country’s oldest and newest Grand Prix venue but also, with the qualifications that can be achieved, meeting national licensing criteria to work at any venues across the country.

The training is FREE for those signing up to the Donington Park scheme and it will offer programmes that cover security guarding; spectator safety response teams working in crowds; cashiers; cash and valuables guarding and transit; first aid; Health and Safety; together with courses leading to Security Industry Association (SIA) qualifications and licensing.

“We have decided to take our security operation in house, and we want a team of dedicated local people to work at our events, which vary from the British Motorcycle Grand Prix to major music events, together with general security of our estate. As such, we want and need everyone to be fully trained and where appropriate qualified,” explained Simon Gillett, the circuit’s Chief Executive.

“This initiative will ensure that we have people working here who know the circuit, know the area, and care about it, rather than us having to hire in busloads of staff from around the country – this, while creating employment locally, which is a big plus in the present climate, will also ensure that our customers are courteously and safely looked after, thus making their visit that little bit more enjoyable which is so important to us,” he added.

The Donington Park Centre of Excellence, which draws on the expertise of leading security specialists Knights and Sons Security, to carry out the various training programmes, will also provide tuition for staff at any location, such as football clubs or concert venues. “The training can be carried out wherever the client requires it – the Donington Park scheme is roving, and once people have been trained they can achieve NVQ and SIA qualifications that enable them to work anywhere,” explained Tony Knights.

The decision of Donington Park to employ its own security staff means additional jobs in the area, many event related across weekends, and recruitment will be local to the circuit, moving away from bringing in people from around the country, and, under this new scheme, everyone will be trained fully to carry out their functions.

Those interested in joining the training initiative should in the first instance call the Donington Park office on 01332 810048.

Following completion of the initial phase of Donington Park’s ongoing redevelopment programme, the Parkland circuit has released tickets for its 2009 calendar of events – and prices from 2008 have been frozen to help enthusiasts beat the credit crunch. Children under 16 continue to benefit from free tickets at most events on the calendar at the family friendly venue.

Online and telephone sales got underway as the circuit roared back into action today with a motorcycle track day attended by approximately 180 bike enthusiasts. The contractors responsible for the completion of a new £750,000 tunnel and the careful removal of the Dunlop bridge finished a track handover yesterday in time for action to begin promptly this morning.

In the world of motorcycle racing, Britain has its best line-up for decades with strong contenders in all leading championships. The British Superbike Championship will kick-off the trio of premier two-wheel events at the Leicestershire circuit on 23-25 May, with seasoned campaigners Karl Harris, James Ellison, Michael Rutter and Glen Richards taking on 2009 series favourite Leon Camier and former MotoGP contender Sylvain Guintoli.

Just one month later, on 26-28 June, the Superbike World Championship action will travel to Donington Park with seven new British contenders vying for glory at the only home round of the season. With reigning British Champion Shane Shakey Byrne, experienced campaigner Leon Haslam and 2008 wildcard podium finisher mixing it with youngsters like Eugene Laverty and Jonathan Rea – who impressed on his debut season in World Supersport by finishing second in the series – the British contingent is expected to be strong.

It will take a lot to beat, but the planned extravaganza for MotoGP on 24-26 July, is likely to come close. Home hero James Toseland will once again take on the world’s leading motorcycle racers, including eight-times World Champion Valentino Rossi –and this time he has a point to prove after a disappointing opening home GP in 2008. With advance ticket sales at £49 for race day and £60 for the weekend, expect a large crowd.

Car enthusiasts and families can look forward to a fun day out at the British Touring Car Championship event on 16-17 May with the ever popular Dan Eaves returning to the series after a three-year break. With free entry for children and £23 per adult advance race day ticket, the BTCC event offers great value for money.

A variety of other racing events including the British F3 & GT Championships and Truck Race Festival are also planned to thrill enthusiasts. Further details and ticket prices can be found at www.donington-park.co.uk However, for those who cannot wait until May, the first race event of the season will get underway in less than four weeks – on 28-29 March – with the ACU MotorSic: Internations Motorcycle Challenge. Advance tickets for adults cost just £12 and children under 16 go free.

“We have a fantastic calendar of events in 2009,” says circuit owner Simon Gillett, “and we can’t wait for it to get underway. We’re privileged to be hosting the only British rounds of the world’s two leading motorcycle championships with World Superbikes and MotoGP.

“However, we’re also keen to continue supporting motorsport at the grassroots level and keeping domestic championships such as British Touring Cars and British Superbikes alive and well. Due to our redevelopment programme, our infield area will not be open this year, but we already have alternative plans in place and I’m confident that we will provide all visitors with an excellent

experience.”

Donington Park circuit roared back into action this morning (Friday) signalling that it is “business as usual” at the Leicestershire circuit now that the initial phase of the necessary redevelopment ahead of the staging of the British F1 Grand Prix has been completed.

For riders taking part in the first busy motorcycle track day of the season at the Leicestershire venue, the most noticeable feature of the circuit was the complete removal of the iconic Dunlop Bridge which had stood over the straight from Coppice for three decades.  The massive structure, which had to go in preparation for the re-aligned circuit, has been carefully dismantled over a two week period, and stored with the intention of relocation elsewhere on the 650 acre parkland estate.

Not so noticeable for the participants, who were putting their own machines through their paces, was the completion of the tunnel constructed under the straight between McLeans and Coppice at a cost of £750,000. The tunnel is a vital part of the 2010 F1 project in that it enables works to continue apace on the circuit infield without interrupting 2009 circuit activities.

The digging of the tunnel was the first job, once planning consent had been given for the major £100 million build of the state of the art facilities required to stage motorsport’s premier event, the F1 Grand Prix, for a decade starting in July next year.

Initially the tunnel will be used by construction traffic – it is wide enough for a two-lane road and high enough to cope with Europe’s largest articulated vehicles. It will then play a key part in access for the teams using the new pits and paddock complex, which is to be built on the existing infield area.

“If sceptics are still questioning our capabilities to deliver the British Grand Prix, then perhaps seeing these two important early jobs completed on schedule will rubber stamp what we have always said: Donington will deliver” said circuit owner and Chief Executive Simon Gillett. “Even despite some of the worst winter weather in years, we have remained focused and continued to make progress. We are now moving quickly onto the next part of the project which is to prepare the ground works for the pits and paddock complex to be built,” he added.

In addition to the construction works, the circuit will now be in daily use with a variety of ‘ride and drive’ trackdays, testing, and a full programme of racing – beginning over the weekend of 28/29 March with the all-new MotoSix Nations Motorcycle Team Challenge.  This is followed by British Championship action for Touring Cars, Formula 3 and Superbikes prior to the World Championship feature events for Superbikes (June 28) and MotoGP (July 26) in a season that runs through to October.

Take the kids to The Park

Bored children and a week-long half-term holiday can often mean only one thing - expense! With that in mind, father-of-two and Donington Park Chief Executive Simon Gillett is offering a family fun day out with prices starting from just £5 for a variety of new and exciting activities.

The local circuit is throwing open the doors to its Donington Grand Prix Collection of Racing Cars every day during the current half-term school break to provide insane excitement for all schoolchildren - and sanity for parents.

There's the opportunity for all budding Lewis Hamilton's out there to get ahead of the current World F1 Champion by driving the Donington Park circuit that will host the British Grand Prix for a decade starting in July next year. A state-of-the-art simulator gives everyone the opportunity to experience the thrills and speed of driving a Grand Prix car for just a fiver.

British MotoGP contender James Toseland, Leicester Tigers player Lewis Deakin, Isle of Man TT rider Michael Dunlop and Touring Car Driver Paul O' Neil have already established their names on the leader board and you have the chance to do the same - or even beat them with a better lap time to impress school friends and colleagues.

Young and old can take the wheel in the sophisticated Donington Park simulators that are now fully programmed to portray the exciting new three-mile long circuit, with an optimum lap time of 80 seconds. You are in control, too much speed into a corner and you are in the gravel trap, just like the real thing, get it right by setting the fastest time of the session and there is a prize. The more competitive can also race head-to-head race in two adjacent simulators, rather than just beating the clock.

If the thought of driving a Grand Prix car is a bit daunting, then, there is the opportunity to take the wheel of a World Rally Championship car, hurtling through a simulated special stage, rough tracks, trees and all. Reaction times are crucial in all aspects of driving and with the Batak machine there is the chance to check out just how good your reaction speed is, by hitting the pods as they light up.

It's fun, fast and a great experience and you can choose from any of the four activities for just a fiver, or do the lot for £15 - including entry to the world famous Grand Prix museum.

The museum is open daily, 10.00-17.00, and has 130 exhibits on show, portraying the development of the racing car from the early days through to the present, and including the cars of the legendary world champions, not forgetting a growing collection of racing motorcycles.

Admission charges to the museum for those not taking up the "four-up" challenge are: Adults £7.00, Children (6-16years) £2.50, Students/Senior citizens £5' Special family ticket £14.00 (2 adults and up to 3 children).

For further information and/or copyright-free images, please contact Linzi Corrigan on 01652 682881

Email doningtonparkpr@rbplimited.co.uk

Peter Wahl - the architect who has worked extensively on the Donington Park redevelopment project - has promised that the new circuit, which will host the British F1 Grand Prix for a decade from July 2010, will present overtaking and excitement together with technical challenges for drivers and teams.

Tilke, the German concern in which Peter is a partner, has designed most of the world's newest circuits. However, Donington Park is the company's first project in England. On a visit to the parkland circuit last week, Peter described his work on the project as very exciting because the "circuit has to include the best of the old with the new.

"Donington presented a big challenge - there are the big spectator banks, the tradition of the flowing downhill section at Craner Curves to the Old Hairpin, the racing through what is like a country garden, but then we have to provide the new sections."

The existing circuit from Redgate to McLeans remain unchanged, but Coppice Corner will the tightened going into the 1001 metre straight - one of the longest in the championship, which stretches through to the Melbourne Hairpin.

"The long straight will be very fast, but then it goes into a slow hairpin and I believe that will create the perfect overtaking place, and that is what we need, more overtaking, more excitement," added Wahl.

"There is the new piece on the circuit infield, and that will be demanding and exciting. It goes downhill steeply and into a left-hander - the drivers will feel the high pressure there, and then they will have to accelerate back uphill. It will be technically very demanding for everyone."

The design of the circuit has been handled by Wahl and his partner Herman Tilke: "We had a lot of fun - Herman is a racing driver so we added many features and are confident that the new circuit will be very good. It has been a task for us to maintain the tradition of the circuit with the necessary new designs but we have done it in such a way that it will be as interesting as when Ayrton Senna won the 1993 Grand Prix of Europe there in 1993, and that was the best race ever."

Wahl had flown in to the adjacent East Mildands Airport to check progress on the £100million project which was given planning permission last month, and noted that works on the £750,000 tunnel to provide ready access to the infield area pits and paddock complex at all times was nearing completion while works to carefully remove the Dunlop Bridge - necessary given the re-alignment of the circuit - were in hand.

"I am confident that everything will be delivered on time - we Germans and British have a similar mentality when it comes to doing things and Simon Gillett (the Chief Executive of the circuit) is good - we have a friendship and have worked strongly together. Donington Park knows how to handle lots of people having the MotoGP here and the airport being so close gives good access."

Works, despite the recent bad weather, are on schedule to deliver Britain's newest Grand Prix circuit in good time for the July 2010 hosting of the British F1 Grand Prix.

For further information and/or copyright-free images, please contact Rebecca Brocklesby or Linzi Corrigan on 01652 680060

Email doningtonparkpr@rbplimited.co.uk

On 4 July 2008, Formula One boss Bernie Ecclestone shocked race fans across the world when he confirmed that the British Grand Prix would have a new home from 2010 - Leicestershire's Donington Park. The UK round of F1 has been hosted exclusively by Silverstone since 1987, but the circuit has been unable to meet Ecclestone's increasing demands for superior facilities in recent years.

Although Donington Park already has many exciting motorsport events on its calendar including the British MotoGP, British Touring Car Championship and World Superbikes, clinching the British round of F1 is a big achievement.

On Thursday 8 January 2009 Donington Park was given the green light to proceed with planned circuit developments, which will enable the venue to host the 2010 British Formula One Grand Prix. North West Leicestershire District Council granted planning permission for the first stage of improvements at an evening hearing in Coalville.

The permission was a significant milestone for Chief Executive Simon Gillett, who has spent six years researching and planning the project. Construction planning and design, which began six months ago, is now complete and a main contractor has been appointed to undertake the intensive 15-month £100million re-development project. Gillett - who holds a 150-year lease on the circuit - emerged victorious from the hearing, promising that "Donington will deliver".

Gillett's comment is likely to have struck a chord with critics who have consistently attacked the plans since Donington Park's intention was announced last July. The determined entrepreneur has remained committed to delivery and has been insistent that his only response to the sceptics will be successful completion of the development.

Track extension and widening, a new pit and paddock complex, clubhouse, new media and medical centres, new access tunnels, and additional asphalt and gravel run-offs are all part of the plan. Although this may seem like a lot of work in a short space of time, Donington Park is no stranger to development and has undergone several extensive reinventions over the years.

Despite the proverbial mountain Donington Park has to climb within the next 17 months, CEO Simon Gillett is not daunted by the challenge, and has no time for scepticism. "I was stuck on a motorcycle at the age of four and was told to go racing," he says. "That gives you the self-belief that you can achieve things and I have kept that attitude from that day to this."

With a focus on putting Britain on the world stage in terms of its motorsport facilities, Gillett recruited renowned German architect Hermann Tilke to redesign the track at Donington Park. Tilke's portfolio of past projects includes Circuit de Catalunya, Nurburgring, Sepang and Shanghai International. It's a strong starting point for Gillett, who is only too aware that there are no other British venues in contention to host the event.

"We are confident we will be ready in time for the FIA inspection in April 2010," says Gillett. "It's a big chunk of work and we are already hitting it hard. At the moment we are developing phase one, which is an 800,000sq ft space, then phase two will come along and make phase one look small in comparison."

In addition to the construction site that employs up to 400 people, Donington Park will still host 500,000 visitors across several international racing events this year. These include the burgeoning World Superbike Championship and the 2009 British MotoGP, which if rumours are to be believed, could be Valentino Rossi's last GP race on British soil. "We are building a tunnel under the track, clearing the infield and separating the two areas so both operations (construction and racing) can run alongside each other. The racing won't be affected this year and we will be ready for 2010," says Gillett.

His vision is to make the 2010 F1 at Donington Park the first public transport-only Grand Prix. The race will be the first one to be accessed by public transport and only a limited number of cars will be allowed to enter the site on race weekend. With access to Donington Park at a premium, Gillett also plans to restrict on-site ticketing and impose a number of park-and-ride schemes around Leicestershire, Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire. He hopes to trial elements of this service at the British MotoGP event in July.

In terms of track development, the redesigned Donington Park will represent an equal mix of old and new. Tilke has been careful to ensure that the additional sections of the track will complement the historic layout. The northern passage from Redgate Corner to McLean's Corner will remain unchanged. However, Coppice Corner is to be realigned and Starkey's Hill Straight and Melbourne Corner will be completely restructured.

From Melbourne, the track runs downhill into the new arena, using the current 4x4 track to create an exciting loop, which will achieve the required increase in length. After a sharp left, a slight right and an almost 90-degree right turn, the track will climb uphill at a challenging 12 per cent slope before leading back into the existing track formation. This undulation creates an exciting challenge and provides plenty of possibilities for overtaking and outstanding spectator viewing opportunities.

The initial changes to Donington Park ahead of the 2010 F1 Grand Prix will position the circuit as one of the UK's oldest motorsport venues with state-of-the-art facilities. Its link to the past is preserved in the site's new museum, which has a £17m car collection on display for visitors. Meanwhile an F1 simulator that allows the public to test-drive the redesigned track is symbolic of its transformation into a 21st-century circuit.

Donington Park today revealed exciting plans for a summer event that will clearly signal circuit owner Simon Gillett’s intentions to put British motorsport on the world stage.  On Tuesday 2 June 2009, the venue will host a celebration of motorsport heritage and future – with all money raised on the evening going to charity.

In tribute to the late Ayrton Senna – the winner of the last European Grand Prix staged at Donington Park and known supporter of children’s charities – the NSPCC has been selected to benefit from the event. Movers and Shakers and Spinal Research will also share the proceeds. Motorsport star of the future and nephew of Ayrton, Bruno Senna, has also been invited along as the guest of honour.

Celebrity ambassadors including Austin Healey will be present at the Spotlight event alongside motorsport legends and competitors. Visitors will enjoy a champagne reception, lavish three course meal and a full entertainment programme with some racy surprises!

“Britain has a lot to be proud of in the world of motorsport,” said Donington Park Chief Executive Simon Gillett. “We have a British F1 Champion with Lewis Hamilton, a leading British contender, James Toseland, in MotoGP and five domestic competitors in the burgeoning World Superbike series to name just a few.

“Given our motorsport heritage and the deal to host the British Formula One Grand Prix in July 2010, we thought we ought to celebrate. The purpose of the event is to invite Britain to share our vision in positioning the nation as a world leader in motorsport.”

Jenny Cowlishaw, NSPCC corporate manager in the East Midlands, said: "This is a very exciting partnership and a huge boost to our Child’s Voice Appeal which aims to raise £3.3 million in the East Midlands to expand and develop the NSPCC’s listening services, which includes the NSPCC Helpline and ChildLine in Nottingham."

Movers and Shakers charity co-founder Tom Isaacs said: “Formula 1 is about driving forward as fast as possible and success is only possible if you have a passionate and expert team around you.  It is precisely with this culture The Cure Parkinson’s Trust aims to achieve its goal.”

For further information please contact Becks or Linzi on 01652 682881

Email doningtonparkpr@rbplimited.co.uk

Notes to editors

• Tables packages for spotlight are now on sale at the following rates:
• Gold package £2,500 includes table of 10, celebrity host, stage side viewing position, Champagne on table, 3 course meal
• Silver Package £2,000 includes table of 10, roadside viewing position, Champagne on table, 3 course meal
• Bronze Package £1,500 includes table of 10, 3 course meal.

Britain’s James Toseland is hosting a send-off party with a difference ahead of his second season in the world’s elite motorcycle racing series. On February 21, the double World Superbike Champion will take to the stage at Donington Park’s Paddock Suite – together with his band Crash – to entertain his devoted legion of fans before embarking on the 2009 MotoGP campaign.

The event follows Toseland’s recent appearance at indig02, inside London’s 02 Arena, where Crash opened an exclusive evening of live music from artists including legendary Queen drummer Roger Taylor, Wizard’s Roy Wood and Graham Goulden of 10cc. The Fabbagirls – the world’s leading Abba tribute band – also performed at the event, and proved to be huge hit.

As established performers, The Fabbagirls have worked with Lionel Ritchie, The Who, Billy Idol and Phil Collins. On February 21, they’ll add Toseland to the list as they join the MotoGP idol on stage at the Donington Park send-off bash. In addition to performing their notoriously raunchy set, the girls will also feature on backing vocals during Crash’s riotous set.

After the performance, James will meet with fans to sign autographs and chat about the season ahead. This is the perfect opportunity to get up close and personal with one of the biggest stars in motorsport before he heads back to the track in search of MotoGP glory.

James Toseland: “I’m really looking forward to the send-off party. Last year’s event was fantastic and it gave me a huge boost ahead of my first season in MotoGP. The party will be a good opportunity for me to thank all of the fans for their continued support.”

Tickets for the event (£15 each) are on general sale now and entry for under 16s is free! Please call Gemma on 01652 680060 to book.