Drifting competition moves from Montekristo to Ħal Far following objections by Mepa

A drifting competition yesterday was moved to Ħal Far from Montekristo after objections by Mepa. Organisers of the event announced the decision yesterday evening after it became clear that Mepa would not have shifted from the position it took.

The competition, which was to be held at Montekristo Estates, was due to start yesterday afternoon at 3pm and continues till tomorrow.

Organisers were informed by Mepa on Thursday afternoon that the three-day permit would not be issued.

The event is being sponsored by two government organisations – The Malta Sports Council and VisitMalta.com

The event will include the participation of 13 foreign teams. Some 65 million people are expected to follow the event on television.

In a press conference yesterday morning, events promoter Adrian Figallo said that Mepa initially said it had no objection to the event, if the venue it was held in was licensed.

However, on 30 September, it filed an objection, saying there was an enforcement order on site. The organisers insisted that the venue, which has been used for Il-Fiera l-Kbira, has all the necessary permits. According to Mr Figallo, Mepa chose to object to put pressure on the owner of the place, Charles Polidano, to pay outstanding fines.

The organisers also spoke with the Prime Minister about the situation, however, he insisted that this was an enforcement issue, and Mepa is ultimately an independent authority. “Mepa has asked for an illegal zoo to be closed and other structures to be removed,” Dr Muscat was quoted to have said.

The Motor Sports Federation expressed its disappointment, saying it is unfair that motor sports enthusiasts are being used as guinea pigs for Mepa to put pressure on owner Mr Polidano. Prior to the change of venue, President of the Association, Tonio Cini, had said that if the event is not held, it would cost hundreds of thousands of euros, apart from the bad publicity for Malta.

The event was launched in August by Parliamentary Secretary Chris Agius.