The world governing body for air sports has given its approval for the 2014 Red Bull Air Race season.
The Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI) announced its decision to approve the series and provide safety oversight yesterday.
“We are delighted to be involved in such a thrilling event that reaches so many people and has such a huge potential for air sports promotion,” FAI President John Grubbström said. “The FAI, as the world federation for airsports recognised by the International Olympic Committee, will sanction the race and provide its well-established and recognised expertise in safety, rules and regulations to the Red Bull Air Race team.
"I am sure that both organisations, and through them all airsports, will greatly benefit from this collaboration and I look forward to the first race of the season in Abu Dhabi.”
Official recognition also means special FAI medals will be awarded to pilots, and an FAI delegate, Dutchman Ben Ruijs, will supervise safety.
Red Bull Air Race kicks off in Abu Dhabi on 28 February after a three-year break in which safety and organisation were improved. There will be no race in Australia this year.