Date:08/07/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/07/08/stories/2006070808741700.htm

Sport - Racing : Motor

Elf signs up Armaan Ebrahim

CHENNAI: TotalFinaElf, a leading lubricants company, which is slowly making its presence felt in India, has signed up promising racing talent Armaan Ebrahim as its brand ambassador.

The 17-year-old speed sensation, Armaan is the first endorser of this French company in India and this will see him extensively support marketing and mass media communications of Elf brands. This, apart from concentrating on his main venture of making a mark in Formula car racing. Armaan is currently racing for `Position 1 Racing' team in the Formula Renault-UK championship. Briefing newsmen on Friday, P.K. Mittal, Elf's senior vice-president said that the tie-up was for three years and the company's continued commitment towards motor sports would get a new boost in the progress of Armaan. "We are a young company in India and Armaan is a young potential. Together we hope to make big strides," he said. Speaking on the occasion, Armaan said that Elf's support would go a long way in taking care of his financial matters and furthering racing opportunities for him.

The young lad, who has switched his base to England to suit his motor sport interests would be participating again in the tough Formula Renault-UK championship, in his endeavour to improve his chances of breaking into the F-1 circuit.