Fun way to race for a cup

DUBAI // The Dubai Autodrome will be an even more fun place to be for race fans in January. The Fun Cup Middle East race series runs its first event in the UAE on January 27, 28 and 29 at the Autodrome. The series features relatively low-cost, purpose-built race cars with bodies in the shape of the classic Volkswagen Beetle. The cars are powered by a 130hp, 1,800cc VW/Audi engine, and the entire package weighs just 760kg. The race weekend starts with practice on Thursday, then qualifying and a six-hour race on both Friday and Saturday. Want to participate? Buying the car costs US$51,999 (Dh190,984); the entry fee is ?5,400 (Dh25,590), which includes car shipment from Europe. Car rental, including full track support, tyres, fuel and other necessities, is $23,150 (Dh85,026) based on up to six drivers, or you can buy a single seat for $7,500 (Dh27,546), and the series will match you up in a car with drivers of similar experience (minimum three per team). The organisers hope to run another event at Yas Marina in Abu Dhabi. For more information, visit www.funcup.ae.