#WTCR Race of Morocco counts on continued support from AFRIQUIA as Marrakech Grand Prix prepares to turn 10

WTCR / OSCARO season-opening event a highlight of the 2019 calendar *Local hero Bennani begins title bid during weekend of action and entertainment *All three FIA World Touring Car races broadcast live on free-to-air channel 2M

AFRIQUIA will remain the Event Presenting Partner of WTCR Race of Morocco during a landmark occasion for the Marrakech Grand Prix, which celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2019.

First run in 2009, the Marrakech Grand Prix is home to Morocco’s round of the WTCR – FIA World Touring Car Cup presented by OSCARO, having previously hosted the country’s FIA World Touring Car Championship counter.

The festival of motorsport will once again have the honour of hosting the opening rounds of the WTCR / OSCARO season, a 10-event global tour from April to December, which enjoys extensive live worldwide broadcasting.

AFRIQUIA, Morocco’s leading fuel station operator, has renewed its support of the Race of Morocco event, which takes place at Circuit Moulay El Hassan in the Agdal district of Marrakech from 5-7 April.

Part of the Akwa Group, AFRIQUIA will benefit from significant trackside branding, inclusion of its name in the official event title, plus numerous promotional opportunities – such as live national television coverage on free-to-air channel 2M, plus extensive international broadcasting.

And with home hero Mehdi Bennani among the favourites for victory in his Sébastien Loeb Racing Volkswagen Golf GTI TCR, fans are expected to flock to the venue in their thousands to enjoy a packed weekend of entertainment both on and off track.

While some 45 drivers from the Moroccan ASN, FRMSA, will be taking part in the supporting races, the paddock will be live and kicking with things to do for all the family. Activities include a karting track, hot laps, 5D simulators, autograph sessions and music. There’s also a food court, kids’ zone and much, much more.

François Ribeiro, Head of Eurosport Events, the WTCR promoter, said: “It’s a great honour to open the WTCR season in Morocco, especially during the Marrakech Grand Prix’s 10th anniversary weekend, which has always been a highlight on our calendar. We want to thank AFRIQUIA for its support and we hope as many fans as possible will come and enjoy the entertainment.”

Commenting on the Marrakech Grand Prix turning 10, WTCR / OSCARO race winner Mehdi Bennani said: “When we see an event with history behind it, then it means it’s successful and I am happy the Marrakech Grand Prix has this history. I am also happy to be a part of it and happy that the event is part of the WTCR because, for the people of Morocco, it is our event. And big thanks to the fans for their support. Even when you are in the car flat out racing you can hear the noise of the people. This really does mean a lot to me.”