Symbol of UAE pride to be seen by millions around the world on F1 cars

A symbol of UAE pride will be painted onto two Formula 1 racing cars for the 2013 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, it was announced today.

The “Kullunna Khalifa” logo will be on the side of both Scuderia Toro Rosso F1 cars throughout the weekend.

An estimated global television audience of 200 million will see it fly around Yas Marina Circuit along with the 60,000 people who will attend during practice, qualifying and the race itself.

The promotion of Kullunna Khalifa at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix has been organised by the International Petroleum Investment Company (IPIC).

They are already involved with Toro Rosso as Cepsa, Nova Chemicals and Falcon Private Bank – IPIC Group companies - are sponsors of the team.

Kullunna Khalifa, which literally means “We are all Khalifa”, is a message designed to unite everyone in the UAE in being proud of the nation.

“Kullunna Khalifa is something very important to us here at IPIC and we thought this was a wonderful opportunity to promote UAE pride,” said His Excellency Khadem Al Qubaisi, Managing Director of IPIC.

“The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is a fantastic occasion for everyone in the county. It puts Abu Dhabi in the international spotlight and every year people work so hard to make it all happen.”

The Toro Rosso team today spoke of their delight at being involved in the project.

“The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix has become Scuderia Toro Rosso`s highlight of the year as we are in close cooperation with Cepsa, Nova Chemicals and Falcon Private Bank, all IPIC Group Companies,” said Franz Tost, STR Team Principal. “We feel very honoured to race with the symbol of UAE pride, Kullunna Khalifa, on our cars. In addition, Yas Marina is one of the world’s most beautiful race tracks, with a very special atmosphere”

Toro Rosso’s young superstar driver, Daniel Ricciardo, added: “I really enjoy Yas Marina Circuit – it’s definitely in my top three races. The fact that it’s the only twilight race on the calendar always makes sure there’s a great atmosphere.”