The Dubai Autodrome is preparing for its spectacular launch on October 6-8 when it hosts the LG Super Racing Weekend.

Being held under the patronage of General Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Minister of Defence, the LG Super Racing Weekend will further enhance Dubai's reputation of a centre for sporting excellence.

Launched by Eurosport and the FIA in 2001, the LG Super Racing Weekend was designed to create an event with high sporting interest. It comprises two championships bearing the FIA label, and a monotype series that will showcase unique driving skills.

The event was created specifically for TV as it allows for live coverage and prime time exposure for full action in extremely thrilling races. It is also supported by high quality sporting organisation and international media distribution on Eurosport TV, Eurosportnews and Eurosport.com.

The LG Super Racing Weekend has been widely recognised as a major sporting event. In only two years, the on-site success has increased from 200,000 spectators in 2001 to 380,000 spectators in 2003. As for TV success, it has increased from 30 million viewers in 2002 on Eurosport TV to 40 million viewers in 2003.

Packed with a rich all-year calendar that started vigorously on March 28 2004 in Monza, the LG Super Racing Weekend continued successfully in Valencia, Magny-Cours (France), Hockenheim (Germany) and Donington (England). The races will continue throughout the year in Belgium, Italy, and Germany to finally conclude the yearly calendar and for the very first time in the Middle East in Dubai.

"We are delighted to host the LG Super Racing Weekend as the official opening of the Dubai Autodrome," commented Simon Azzam, CEO, Union Properties.

"Through the races' international reputation, it was the perfect choice to host such a popular event. We hope to continue bringing in reputable and prestigious events that will strengthen Dubai's position in the global market as the sports capital of the Middle East."

Stephane Ratel, CEO of SRW events and Chairman of SRO, added: "For this 4th year of LG Super Racing Weekend series, SRW has taken a new step, by presenting a more prestigious calendar by selecting some of the most famous tracks in Europe.

"And for the first time it features a hot spot in the Middle East, Dubai, where the 2004 calendar will end and the 10 weekends will be rewarded. It's surely going to be a big success."

The LG Super Racing Weekend series includes the European Touring car championship, the FIA GT Championship, and the Formula Renault V6 Championship.