Sulayem supports call for volunteers for F1

The Automobile and Touring Club of the UAE backed a new recruitment drive for motorsport marshals in preparation for the next racing season in the Emirates.

The racing season also includes November’s Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

The UAE Motorsport Marshals Club is seeking individuals and groups of people who have an interest in motor sport and who are keen to get more involved. Set up recently and run under the jurisdiction of the ATCUAE, the Marshals Club is a core group who volunteer their services at major events including the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge, V-8 Supercars, 24 Hours Touring Cars, National Race Days, motocross and karting events.

Its goal is to grow its membership of UAE-based and especially native Emirati officials and marshals to ensure sustainable, more self-sufficient motor sport events in the future. “Marshalling is a way to get involved in racing, serve the community and meet new like-minded people, brought together in their passion for motor sport,” said Mohammed bin Sulayem, President of the ATCUAE and Vice President, of the FIA, motor sport’s world governing body.

“The ATCUAE is committed to bringing people together and encouraging active motor sport lifestyles through the Marshals Club. We encourage those looking on with interest to join up now and become an active part of the exciting motor sport scene we have in the Emirates.”

The role of the marshal is to act as the eyes and ears of race officials on the track, to report to Race Control and, in the case of flag marshals, to communicate with drivers.

Often the unsung heroes of motorracing, marshals are normally first on the scene of an incident, ensuring safety and assisting drivers so that the race can continue with as little interruption as possible.

Thorough training is provided for those joining the Marshals Club and this, added to the practical experience gained at race venues like Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi and Dubai Autodrome, helps develop unique life and work skills. “Marshalling gives an opportunity to get seriously close to race action – a position money can’t buy,” said Sulayem. “But it also requires a serious time commitment to training and attending race meetings, so we are looking for motivated and enthusiastic people who want to do something exciting, active and community-oriented.” Two full-day training sessions for marshals have been set for June 25 and July 2 at the Yas Marina Circuit. Those interested must apply online before June 18. Full details are available on the “UAE Motorsport Marshals Club” section of the ATCUAE website atwww.atcuae.ae.