The general manager of the Nikon SuperGP, Greg Hooton, has attempted to quash reports the A1GP event at Surfers Paradise is in danger of falling through.

The World Cup of Motorsport is set to fill the void left by the IndyCar Series' decision not to compete in Australia this season, with the nation versus nation championship running alongside the domestic V8 Supercar Championship as part of the race weekend.

Despite assurances from A1GP that the event would go ahead has planned, reports from the Gold Coast have now called the event into question – with the Gold Coast News stating that the cars have yet to leave British soil after the FIA ordered safety modifications to be made prior to the start of the season.

Brisbane airport is also reported to have denied having any bookings in place for the aircraft expected to carry the cars to Australia, where they were due to undergo a test at Queensland Raceway early next week.

While admitting that there were plenty of rumours doing the rounds, Hooton insisted that A1GP isn't yet in breach of any contracts and was continuing to work towards its cars being on the grid for the race next weekend.

“I need to make it clear that this event is happening next week,” he said. “Do not lose sight of the fact that I'm standing in V8 Pit Lane where next week the V8 Supercars will for the first time ever have two, 200km races. The V8 Supercars are absolutely a major aspect of this event and will be here in force next week.

“There are certainly rumours surrounding the appearance of the A1GP World Cup of Motorsport at the Nikon SuperGP at this time, there is no question about that. At this point in time, I need to make clear that A1GP has not breached any terms of contract with Gold Coast Motor Events Company.



“The current situation is as follows:

“Operational staff within A1GP continue to work with our staff on preparing for their race.



“A1GP have released their teams list. I have letters from the competing teams committing to racing on the Gold Coast. A1GP have paid deposits on accommodation. 



“A1GP have paid deposits on the hire of general equipment. A1GP have approved and completed their on-track signage. Where necessary, A1GP Teams have been making visa applications.