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Sheikh Khalid bin Hamad Al-Thani, First Qatari to Drive an F1 Car

We recently reported to you that Williams F1 Team was preparing to come to Qatar in order to do some filming for their promotional materials throughout the 2010 Formula One Championship. While putting rookie driver Nico Hulkenberg and F1 veteran Rubens Barrichello behind the wheel of their FW31 on the Losail International Circuit for a few laps, Sir Frank Williams also took the opportunity to offer a short drive to His Highness Sheikh Khalid bin Hamad Al-Thani of Qatar.

According to the Williams' latest press release, his Highness, also “owner of the Al-Anabi Group of Drag Racing Teams in the US and the Middle East, became the first Qatari to drive a Formula One car when he took to the 5.3km Losail International Circuit in a Williams FW31 today.”

The Williams FW31 is a remarkable vehicle, unlike any other race car I’ve ever driven. Being the first Qatarian to drive a Formula One car was an amazing experience I will not forget. I am proud that I was able to experience this honour at home in the State of Qatar,” said Sheikh Khalid bin Hamad Al-Thani of Qatar, after doing 5 laps on the aforementioned circuit.

Before stepping behind the wheel of Williams' F1 challenger, His Highness took some valuable lessons during his visit to the team's base in Oxford, UK, gaining the necessary information on driving an F1 car. His lap times yesterday were obviously not available for the media, but Sir Frank Williams seemed quite happy with how the session went.

It was a privilege to be able to facilitate this historic first for His Highness and the State of Qatar today. The team of engineers that worked with Sheikh Khalid reported that he demonstrated considerable skill and aptitude in the DIL simulator at our headquarters near Oxford this week,” said Williams, according to the team's press release.

We are delighted and honored that His Highness has not only sampled our simulator technology which is the basis for our recent investment in the Qatar Science and Technology Park in Doha, but that he has now driven the FW31 and can not only draw comparison between the virtual and real world,” added the team boss.
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