France, Switzerland and the USA are the three latest signings to the new A1 Grand Prix motor racing series.

They join 16 other countries already signed up the 'World Cup of Motorsport'.

Jean Paul Driot, creator and owner of Driot Associates Motor Sport (DAMS), has been confirmed as team principal for A1 Team France while the US franchise has been secured by communications tycoon, Rick Weidinger.

A1 Team Switzerland has approached former Sauber Formula One and Porsche motorsport director, Max Welti, to head up their national side.

A1 Grand Prix's CEO, Tony Teixeira, said: "The inclusion of France and Switzerland significantly increases A1 Grand Prix's European footprint providing traditional competition for the likes of A1 Teams from Great Britain and the Netherlands.

"Looking across the Atlantic, Mr Weidinger's support has presented a significant opportunity to develop A1 Grand Prix's profile in the influential American market."

A1 founder, president and chairman Sheikh Maktoum, speaking at the launch of A1 Team India in Delhi, said: "India is the largest democracy on the planet with over one billion people, bringing A1 Grand Prix ever closer to its goal of representing 80 per cent of the world's population."

Source: ©sportbusiness.com