A1 Grand Prix (
A1GP) was a 'single make'
open wheel auto racing series. It was unique in its field in that competitors solely represented their
nation as opposed to themselves or a team, the usual format in most
formula racing series. As such, it was often promoted as the "
World Cup of Motorsport". The series was ratified by the
Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) and races were held in the traditional Formula One off-season, the northern hemisphere winter. The nation-based A1GP concept was founded by
Sheikh Maktoum Hasher Maktoum Al Maktoum of
Dubai, initially in 2003. After a successful first season of A1GP, it was announced on 29 September 2006 that Maktoum was to sell his position as Chairman & Director of A1GP. The transfer of his share in the organisation of A1 Grand Prix to RAB Capital was finalized in December 2006. Tony Teixeira took control of the series in 2006, leading it to liquidation by 2009.