Creation of Abu Dhabi Motor Sport Management marks another major milestone in lead up to 2009 F1 Grand Prix

The head of the new organisation was also revealed as internationally-renowned F1™ authority, Philippe Gurdjian.

With construction well underway, Philippe Gurdjian has been working closely with the Executive Affairs Authority and ALDAR Properties for the past six months. The creation of ADMM and his official appointment as CEO marks a crucial watershed for the Yas Marina Circuit strategy, as it formalises operational and day-to-day management structures.

Philippe Gurdjian has more than 40 years experience in motor sport, including the creation of some of the world's most impressive circuits and playing an instrumental role in 24 successful F1™ Grand Prix around the world.

"It was critical to find the right person for this job because Yas Marina Circuit is about more than just creating one of the most advanced F1™ tracks on the motor racing circuit - it is also about building a global centre for motor sport in the region, as well as a hub for automotive technology research and development," said H.E. Khaldoon Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Executive Affairs Authority and Chairman of ADMM.

"Philippe's impressive and unrivalled motor sport credentials, along with the close partnership he has already established with ALDAR, made the decision an easy one."

Philippe Gurdjian's achievements include the construction on Malaysia's Sepang Circuit (1998), Bahrain International Circuit (2004) and the upgrade of Spain's Circuit de Catalunya in Barcelona. Moreover, he was responsible for organising the first three Grand Prix in Kuala Lumpur (2000-2002) and the first Bahrain Grand Prix (2004) with great success.

Commenting on his appointment, Philippe Gurdjian said, "I have been extremely enthused and excited about the Abu Dhabi project so I am delighted to officially take charge. Our vision is to create a global centre of "Motor Sport Excellence" in Abu Dhabi and I look forward to working with the team at ADMM and the extended Abu Dhabi team to achieve this."

ADMM will report directly to a Board of Directors, comprising 60% representation from the Executive Affairs Authority and 40% ALDAR Properties.

"Whilst a great deal has already been accomplished on this landmark project there is still much to be done before the inaugural Grand Prix in 2009 so we welcome the formation of ADMM and are excited about continuing to work with Philippe and his team to ensure we deliver a world-class circuit of the future." said Mr Ron Barrott, CEO, ALDAR Properties.

Today's announcement comes as the region gears-up for next month's highly anticipated Formula 1™ Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix.

"The success and continued growth of the Bahrain Grand Prix provides much inspiration for Abu Dhabi and is proof that motor racing is a huge part of the sporting culture in the Middle East," said H.E. Khaldoon Al Mubarak.