F1 in Schools final showdown returns to Ferrari World track

The competition kicks off at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi on November 16.

Julian Beyerlein, left, Safire Team, German Team, and Timur Becent, Grade 9, Avitus Team, Gems World Academy, compete in the F1 in Schools national finals. Fatima Al Marzooqi / The National

ABU DHABI // The F1 in Schools World Finals 2014 will see 38 teams of racing enthusiasts from 40 countries compete for the title.

The finalists were selected from more than 20 million pupils, all of whom had taken part in national contests and were judged to be the best in class, or “top guns”.

The competition will take place at Ferrari World from November 16 to 18, just days ahead of the 2014 Formula One Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Jesse Vargas, the general manager of Ferrari World, said the theme park was pleased to be hosting the finals again after hosting them in 2012.

“Initiatives of such a global scale help to cultivate science, technology, engineering and maths among pupils in a more fun, challenging and exciting environment, and motivate bright young minds by providing them with the platform they need to be part of this exciting industry,” he said.

Andrew Denford, founder and chairman of F1 in Schools, said the organisers were looking forward to heading back to the capital.

“It is great to be heading back to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi,” he said. “It feels like the natural home for F1 in Schools, giving pupils the thrill of the F1-inspired rides and attractions in the park alongside the excitement of our competition.

“The world finals teams loved it in 2012 and this year’s event will also allow the pupils to experience all the excitement around the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix at once.”

The teams taking part will race miniature cars that they have designed and manufactured in a series of track competitions, and will enjoy a week in the capital with a range of activities and tours to explore the UAE’s popular landmarks.