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Algarve: An exclusive insight into the International Algarve Race Track

Date: 14/10/2008

An exclusive insight into the International Algarve Race Track

Paulo Pinheiro, CEO of Parkalgar, the team in charge of operations at the Algarve International Racetrack has this week spoken exclusively to The Portugal News of a venue that is fast gaining international recognition. With the Superbike final round scheduled for November 2nd, the final phases of the €200 million project are underway, and in a little over a week, the Algarve will learn whether teams such as McLaren-Mercedes will be heading there to test their vehicles for the 2009 racing season.

The soon to be inaugurated racetrack is much more than what meets the eye. Besides providing the Algarve with a European landmark, it is a prime example of the region’s efforts over the last decade to show the world that the Algarve can do so much more than just sun, sea and sand, and create absolutely mesmerising projects to the highest possible standards.

Paulo Pinheiro, who admits he built the track purely to fulfil an almost boyish dream and due to his love of racing, explained the background of the project, where the idea came from and how it was possible to put such an ambitious project into practice in a country often criticised for excessive bureaucracy.

"The business idea sprung to mind in 2000 when I was looking at new projects to venture in. I thought a racetrack was a very interesting concept for the Algarve, especially because of the good climate of the region," he explained, adding: "From there, we started prospecting other circuits and searching for finance, which is not easy in Portugal. The licensing procedures started in 2005 and were finalised in October 2007, which was the date when construction commenced."

Mr Pinheiro’s passion for racing started when he was young, karts being his chosen vehicle for adrenaline outbursts. He moved on to super bikes as he grew older, and apparently, so did his hunger for speed.

The initial concept was miles away from the final outcome as Paulo Pinheiro had initially only planned for the racetrack and a small hotel.

Only after inspecting other circuits across the globe, did he realise the potential of the project and it was soon expanded by adding a luxury hotel and a residential development, by the Radisson group, a high quality sports complex, a technological park and one of the best international kart circuits around.

It was always Paulo Pinheiro’s main priority for only Portuguese companies to be involved in the project which is considered one of the best in the world, as it will be an achievement Portugal can be extremely proud of.

The sheer scale of the project is bewildering, with around 2,000 construction workers clocking in each day as the countdown continues.

"We work an average 18 hours a day but there are times when we work a bit longer depending on our needs" says Pinheiro.

One of the biggest concerns of the public and local politicians so far has been the completion of the access road from the A22 motorway that will lead directly to the Algarve International Racetrack, but he showed no concern whatsoever, "The access road will definitely be ready on time", he pledges.

The overall project has been going according to plan and within the €200 million budget, despite a few glitches on the way: "Nothing ever goes exactly as planned, there are always obstacles, but we take care of them step by step."

The €200 million private investment is expected to reach break-even in seven to ten years time according to the Parkalgar director, where after it will start cashing in.

Mr Pinheiro hopes this new racetrack will give future generations opportunities to compete in racing sports nationally and internationally, joining the likes of racers such Miguel Praia, Farrajota, Carreto and Teodósio.

The track is ready for racing as the final layer of tarmac was laid just over a week ago; final touches such as laying the grass and painting the rumble strips are all that remain on the track itself, although the surrounding buildings still need a lot of work done to be ready by November.

The natural terrain of the area allowed this unique circuit to take its form, with steep slopes and a fast pace, requiring great levels of concentration on every metre of the asphalt. The challenging track also allows the public to see much more of the race due to its natural slopes.

So, is Formula 1 actually coming back to Portugal in the foreseeable future?

"We will only be able to say something after October 13th, when FIA inspectors see if the track is fit for F1" replies Paulo Pinheiro, with great hopes for Portugal regaining F1 after Estoril lost it in 1996.

All minimum requirements set by the FIA have been met, so the possibility seems very credible.

As ‘regular’ people will never have a chance to race these mechanic marvels, open track days will be organised, as Paulo Pinheiro explains: "There will be track days organised by us. Safety measures are our top priority so we can allow people to enjoy the track to the utmost without getting hurt", he continued "Our expectations are to have one day a month as a track day", with several different types of cars available, depending on the person’s skill and experience.

Addressing the different races that will take place on the track, Paulo Pinheiro sparked curiosity: "At the moment we have 2 world championships confirmed, which are the Superbikes and the A1GP, and we have another four that have agreed contractual terms; but we will only reveal them on the inauguration day".

"We have a five year contract with the Superbike world series, we never sign contracts for less than three years", he adds.

The future seems bright for the Algarve International Racetrack as "over 300 days are booked for next year", and the Technological Park will also bring great surprises as companies will buy a space and it will be built to their specifications, depending on their necessities.

For example, a top end competition team will buy a space and carry out research and development right next to the track, allowing them to get real time feedback of their work.

The remaining structures, the sport complex, the Radisson hotel and apartment complex will not be ready in time for the inauguration.

"The apartments will be ready in April and the hotel in July or August 2009" says Mr Pinheiro.

As for everything else, sales are going extraordinarily well as the "VIP tower has 48 boxes and we only have 18 still available" and a full house is expected on the inauguration day, attracting 75,000 people. Source: Portugal News

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