KOTA KINABALU: The state capital will be the venue of the Formula 2000 World Cup on Dec 1 and 2. The event, being held for the first time in Sabah, will see 20 of the top powerboat racers competing.

The Malaysian leg of the race would be the last in this year’s F2000 circuit. This year's legs include Portugal (March 26 and 27), Latvia (Aug 18 and 19) and Saudi Arabia (Oct 17 and 18).

Organised by Power Sports Events Sdn Bhd, the powerboat race, featuring participants from 11 countries, would be held in the sea area just off downtown Kota Kinabalu.

Power Sports managing director Zachary Aman said among the top racers for the event are Latvia’s Alex Carella and Briton Owen Jelf.

“This is the best opportunity for powerboat enthusiasts to watch some of the racers in action,” Zachary said after state Tourism, Culture and Environment minister Datuk Masidi Manjum unveiled the event’s logo here on Wednesday.

F2000 World Cup promoter Abdul Salam Fairooz said Sabah was bound to attract more Middle Eastern tourists with the race being held in the state.

“This race receives wide publicity from the international media including the print and electronic media in Saudi Arabia,” he added.

Abdul Salam said the event would also enable Malaysians to learn more about world class powerboat races.

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