…we have to talk !

Big breakdown in effect…but not a mechanical one!

The stage of the World Touring Car Championship that Marrakech hosted in 2009 and 2010 has been cancelled by the FIA (International Autoracing Federation).

The Moroccan saga of this major motorsport event will not see its third episode through a lack of funds.

It appears that the sponsors and other local investors are a little reticent or doubtful about the impact of having the event in Marrakech, as well as any eventual commercial benefit. It’s a real shame as gaining such an event permanently would have certainly contributed to further growing the energetic image of the famous Red City, and equally of the country as a whole. All for a mere 250 million Dirhams, demanded by the FIA for the organisation of the race, or around 50 million pairs of babouches (slippers)…it’s a bargain!

It’s certain that given the exorbitant costs already spent creating the circuit, its route, infrastructure and the logistics, it’s easy to understand how it’s making the Kasbahs not very happy…without even counting the hotels and riad Marrakech who will have to replace the clientele attracted by the race cars.

There’s a persistent rumour about a new bid for 2012, fingers crossed, especially as WTCC event was supposed to be a trampoline for the organisation of a F1 World Championship race, so we wish good luck to all the slipper sellers…

Emmanuel

Tell this to the rest of the world !