Big challenge awaits HSBC team

Dubai: This weekend sees the running of the second round of the Formula Academy Euro Series at the legendary street circuit of Pau in France.

HSBC Racing Academy drivers Saeed Al Muhairi, Mohammad Al Awadi and Mohammad Al Mutawaa will experience a baptism of fire as they take on the unique challenges of the street circuit in south west France which is steeped in history.

The Grand Prix de Pau has been held annually in Pau, Pyrénées-Atlantiques. The race was first held in 1901.

Formula 3000 replaced Formula Two in Europe from 1985 and the race continued as part of the European championship until 1999, when the race around the streets of Pau was changed to a Formula Three event. On the bill this year will be the World Touring Car Championship, Formula 3 Euroseries, the Formula Academy Euro Series and a number of other French national races.

If last year's race is anything to go by the HSBC Racing Academy trio will be hard pressed to learn the circuit and get onto a competitive pace in the short stints available to them for practice.

However, Al Muhairi in particular as shown an impressive ability to adapt to conditions and learn circuits fast.

Al Awadi is determined to raise his game as he admits not being at his best in the first round at Ledenon last month while the "baby of the bunch", 15-year-old Al Mutawaa is expecting to make the most of the weekend as not much is expected from the UAE rookies therefore a good showing will be a step in the right direction.

The three drivers will arrive in Pau where they will join the other Formula Academy drivers to prepare for the weekend event.

They will be accompanied by veteran racer and driver instructor Michael Prophet who will be on hand to coach and mentor the three UAE lads.

Team head coach David Terrien says, "Pau is a big challenge for the HSBC Racing Academy drivers as it is the most difficult and technical circuit they will encounter on this season. Precision and concentration, just like in Monaco, is vital."