A1GP World Cup of Motorsport, 4, Dies

Algarve, Portugal
October 3, 2009

A1GP World Cup of Motorsport, just a few weeks shy of its fifth birthday, died quietly Friday evening.  A1GP ultimately succumbed to complications arising from a self inflicted gunshot wound to the foot that occurred in October 2007 in Maranello, Italy.  Shortly thereafter, A1GP declined a transfusion that would have saved its life. Subsequent transfusions, scheduled every Tuesday and Friday thereafter including one announced publicly just a week ago, failed to materialize.

Relatives close to A1GP say A1’s final words, though cloaked in heavy accent and in hushed tones, appear to have included a reference to “..waiting on a SWIFT..”.    As the death occurred on Friday, relatives speculate that the swift would have been due Tuesday.

Thousands, mostly creditors, noted its passing with sorrow.  The city of Maranello has declared an official day of mourning.  “That’s expected” said one close relative who added, “A1GP provided the FIAT Group its most profitable business since the introduction of the Punto in 1993.  He continued, “I am certain they will be missed in Maranello” adding “for sure in the 2010 budget projections.”

Another who had known A1GP stated “I guess A1 just wasn’t strong enough to cope with the complications arising from licensing and design fees, construction costs and increased operating costs for engines, spare parts, tires, and fuel resulting from its foot wound in Maranello.”   “It’s really a shame because A1GP was so young and vibrant for a while.”

A1GP’s parents, the impetuous Tony Teixeira and the enabling Phillip Richards, are no longer on speaking terms.  Mr. Richards declined comment but noted that creditors could appeal to his Christian charities for reimbursement of monies owed.  Reached for comment, Mr. Teixeira first denied knowing A1GP passed away, then commented “I personally will continue resuscitation efforts and believe that by next Tuesday, A1GP will be alive again”.  No formal public ceremony – or announcement - is expected prior to the Nikon SuperGP in Surfers Paradise, Australia on October 22- 25. Organizers there have scheduled a "missing man formation" tribute at the time the lights were to go green.