From 11-13 September, Siracusa will become the powerboat capital of the world as the Sicilian Grand Prix of the Sea concludes the 2009 season.

Regional Minister for Co-operation, Titti Bufardeci, stressed the importance of such as event for the whole city. "We do not want events that take place in Syracuse to come here occasionally - we want this World Championship to become a regular event in our seas which will help portray a positive image of our country around the world."

With the final leg of the 2009 Powerboat P1 World Championship season approaching, the opening press conference in Syracuse was held in the beautiful setting of the Hotel Des Etranges in Ortigia.

Three days of great entertainment over the weekend will culminate in two World Championships being decided in the SuperSport and Evolution classes.

The Mayor of Syracuse, Roberto Visentin joined forces with the Harbour Commandor, Gaetano Martinez; Powerboat P1 Commercial Director Robert Wicks and Team Al and Al pilot Alfredo Nuzzo to launch the event. Also present was Vice Mayor, Francesco Sgarlata; Assessor for Sport in Syracuse Alessandro Spadaro as well as Deputy Assessor for the Fisheries Co-Operation and the Sicilian Region, Hon Titti Bufardeci.

Harbour Commandor Gaetano Martinez said: "Since our first meeting, I sensed that there was great potential in this event. We are pleased to welcome this event to our city and I wish everyone involved in the organisation a wonderful weekend on both the sea and the land."

Fans of Powerboat P1 are encouraged to attend the extravaganza to witness the event, meet the drivers and take a closer look at the boats which will be contesting the Championship.

Competitor Alfredo Nuzzo stressed his happiness that he will be back racing on home waters. "We are happy to be competing in Italy and especially the beautiful island of Sicily. Our team in the #22 Big Sergio boat are working so we can end the season on a high note."

Martinez is delighted with the route that has been created. "The course is now known and and will delight the local crowds. It will be halfway between the port and the open sea and everything is designed to ensure that the pilots have maximum peace of mind."

Powerboat P1 Commercial Director Robert Wicks thanked those present for their co-operation. "My thanks go to all those who made our return to Sicily possible. First of all, I must say thank you to Assessore Strano and Bufardeci for their passon and commitment that enabled this project to grow and eventually come to life.

"I hope that all of the fans enjoy the even and if the two Italian teams win the World Championship, then I am sure they will be even happier!"

The Regional Minister for Co-operation Titti Bufardeci said: "When I was presented with this project in early 2009, I knew this would be a great opportunity to increase awareness and boost tourism in Syracuse.

"We are not only committed to take this event for one year, but to try and bring it here for years to come and make it a permanent fixture on the Powerboat P1 calendar.

"The VIP Village will be situated in the port area. I am convinced that we will all be happy with the competitiveness of the event. The impressive media network that Powerboat P1 enjoys of nearly 500 million contacts will see the city of Syracuse broadcast across the world."

Stay logged on to this website throughout the Sicilian Grand Prix of the Sea for all the latest news and views from the event.