Spanish GP venue opens new grandstand

(GMM) Barcelona's Circuit de Catalunya has announced the opening of a new grandstand at the venue for the Spanish grand prix.

Still enjoying the fruits of world champion Fernando Alonso's popularity, 'Grandstand S' has been built in front of the circuit's new chicane, near the end of the lap.

It has a capacity of 2000 seats, as the track's director of operations confirmed that the 2007 race, to take place in mid May, is nearly sold out.

"That's what remains for the event in our country," said Ramon Maltas. "Once these tickets are sold out, the tickets for the formula one will be finished."

The new grandstand takes the Circuit de Catalunya's capacity to 76,700 seats. Last year's total attendance of 131,200 at the race, where Alonso won for the first time, was a record. The Spanish grand prix has a contract until 2011.