Andrew Cranswick (Editor Grand Prix Masters Online) had the opportunity to talk to Scott Poulter (CEO GP Masters). In an honest an open interview Scott talked about his greatest moments in 2005 and the frustrations of 2006 along with his vision for the future of the GP Masters.

(Andrew) Firstly I would like to say thank you Scott for taking time out to talk to us at Grand Prix Masters Online. I would like to start by saying congratulations on such a great series.

Looking back, what are your thoughts on the 2006 season (Highs and Lows)?

(Scott) Without a doubt the best memory was initially when we signed the promoter agreement with 3C Africa (the 05 Kyalami promoter), this was the result of visiting over 10 countries and 12 months on the road trying to sign up circuits to host an event. The most memorable moment was standing on the pit wall in Kyalami as all the cars lined up to go out for the qualifying session and then the race. It was at that moment that the concept, everyone’s effort, dedication and persistence came together and no matter how successful GPM becomes this will be the defining moment. Without any doubt the low point was when we realised that despite all our focus and negotiation that the deal with Durban fell over and we weren't left with enough time and resource to put on an event in Kyalami for 06 which was a huge disappointment and credibility hit.

(Andrew) Looking ahead, we all know that Bucharest has been signed for 2007 (congratulations) “we are all obviously looking forward to that one” do we have any other news on races that are close to done deals, and could you tell me when the 2007 calendar be confirmed?

(Scott) We have three locations signed-Kyalami, Qatar and Bucharest and anticipate finalising one more agreement before we announce the calendar in the very near future. Presently we have a further three venues lined up for 08 so we are beginning to get visibility for the future- Qatar is for 07 and 08 and Bucharest is up to 09 so once we add these three we get a solid footprint.

(Andrew) There always seems to be a mix of old classic tracks and new contemporary circuits, why is that?

(Scott) It’s important to create an interesting blend for everyone-drivers, fans and sponsors alike.

(Andrew) You have had a great blend of drivers since starting the GP Masters in 2005, including F1 and Indy Car Champions such as Mansell and Fittipaldi. Can you drop any names that we could be seeing in 2007?

(Scott) As we have dropped the minimum age to 40, we have added Herbert, Boesel and Moreno and are looking to further increase the pool of signed drivers. It is interesting to see the view of drivers who were initially sceptical who are now wanting to compete in the series.

(Andrew) Are we likely to see Prost take up the challenge in 2007

(Scott) We would welcome Alain joining but I don't think he wants to race in a single seater unfortunately. We have met numerous times but cannot agree.

Looking to the future obviously Michael (Schumacher) could be eligible for 09 and having tested Damon it is clear he would be a great addition even for a race or two as he is very quick. Most of the drivers have started talking about how much they enjoy the racing and that because we provide all the engineers and mechanics there is no team politics.

Once the guys are on the track the red mist comes down and the competitiveness is ferocious and each driver has started focusing on their fitness, diet and driving which has seen each event a step up from the previous in terms of competitiveness. The future is clearly very positive and we see this as an official championship in the future once we have in excess of 6-7 events across the globe-maybe 08. But having each race independent ensures every driver is only focused at the weekends result and therefore there is no championship strategy just balls to the wall racing that Sunday. I hope everyone enjoys what we are doing and hope we can provide a stronger series in the future.

Thank you for your time Scott I Know you are a really busy guy and everyone wishes you and the GP Masters all the best for 2007.