"The transformation of Croatia into a year-round destination is one of the main goals of the Tourism Ministry and such events certainly contribute to that image," Tourism Minister Darko Lorencin told reporters, adding that he was pleased the race was taking place in Rovinj for the second consecutive year. This shows the great impression last year's race left on the spectators and organisers, he said.
The race has attracted numerous visitors, proving to be one of the most significant events for the promotion of Croatian tourism and Rovinj as a top destination, said Tomislav Popovic, CEO of the Adris tourism group and the Maistra hotel company.
He said bookings at Maistra hotels were currently up 15 percent thanks to the race, and that there should be more such events in Croatia. He said Adris and Maistra had invested nearly HRK 3 billion in tourism, creating the infrastructure and operational prerequisites for such demanding events.
This year's race is broadcasting live in Austria, Germany, Spain, Great Britain, Poland and France, among other countries.
The two-day event is expected to draw more than 50,000 visitors, which is how many people watched last year's show.
The Red Bull Air Race World Championship 2015 has eight races, it started in Abu Dhabi in February, the second race was held in mid-May in Chiba, Japan, and after Rovinj, races will be held in Budapest, Ascot, Spielberg, Fort Worth and Las Vegas.
Established in 2003 and created by Red Bull GmbH, the Red Bull Air Race is an international series of air races in which competitors have to navigate a challenging obstacle course in the fastest time. It features the 14 best race pilots in a show that combines speed, precision and skill in operating the fastest light race planes.