His Highness Sheikh Khalid bin Hamad Al-Thani of Qatar 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.

He completed a comprehensive preparation process including travelling to the AT&T Williams team base at Grove, earlier this week for a seat fit and a detailed instruction process in the team’s advanced simulator.

Having completed five laps of the circuit, His Highness, owner of the Al-Anabi Group of Drag Racing Teams in the US and the Middle East, said: “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.”

His Highness Sheikh Khalid bin Hamad Al-Thani recently took first place at a 2009-10 Arabian Drag Racing League event at the Qatar Race Club, making the second-quickest Pro Extreme pass in the world.

His Highness is a patron of motorsport in Qatar and internationally. He also heads the development of the Qatar Motor City project, a planned international destination which aims to further His Highness’ vision of the State of Qatar as a centre for international motorsports by combining a world-class oval track, road racing course and drag racing track into a motorsports dedicated city.

He has been in lengthy discussions with NASCAR in the US about involvement in Qatar Motor City. Combined with his leadership in international drag racing through Al Anabi Racing and his continuing relationship with the Williams team and others involved in Formula One racing, under his direction Qatar Motor City aims to be one of the world’s leading motorsports hubs for all forms of racing.