Since the formation of the “MTS — AC Racing” team in 1998, the team has been the leader in one of the most prestigious classes of the “Touring” circle racing in Russia. The team has won Russia’s Championship twice and the pilot team became Russia’s champions in 1999 and 2000. The leading engineer and first pilot of the team, Mikhail Ukhov, master of sports of the international class, standswas second in the BMW 2000 international racing rating. He was also awarded the title of the best pilot in Russia in 2000 by the popular “Za rulyem” publication.

Igor Timofeev, “Mobile TeleSystems” marketing director said: “Mobile communications is a modern and dynamically developing industry. MTS is Russia’s communications market leader and is managed by energetic and ambitious professionals. All Mobile TeleSystems’ initiatives are inspired by the spirit of leadership, that is characteristic of the “MTS AC Racing” team.

Energy, ambition and desire are critical to success, and “MTS AC Racing” team represents all of these qualities. We are proud to be associated with Russia’s “Touring 2000” — the circle races which the “MTS AC Racing” team has been the leader in for several years. We hope our modest contribution will help the team on their way to victory”.

Mikhail Ukhov, the leading specialist and first pilot of the team said: “In the coming season, we are faced with severe competition. The technical level and skills of competitors have increased, competitions are becoming more fascinating and a millisecond will determine victory. But we are sure that the technical and sports potential of the “MTS — AC Racing” team will provide the team with the best opportunity to win. MTS’ support gives us additional confidence”.

On April 27, 2001 the team presented a new BMW 320i E46 racing car at the “Avtodom” motorcar showroom. The car is made by Brinkmann Motorsport and the engine is speeded up by Kroitsmuller. The “MTS — AC Racing” team, led by the best racing engineer of Russia Mikhail Ukhov, has made its final tuning.

A new pilot and sports master of the international class, Grigorii Komarov, has joined the team. Mr Komarov has been go-carting champion of the USSR and Russia for several times , and has won competitions in 1986, 1990, 1992—1996 and 2000. Komarov will make his debut in the circle races with the team.

The first start of the coming season is to be held on May 20, 2001 in St. Petersburg on the “Nevskoe Koltso” route after the three day series of training.