US-based Philip Morris, a leading international tobacco company, and Scuderia Ferrari are celebrating the GCC debut of their new Ferrari Formula 1 car at the ongoing Bahrain Grand Prix as part of their joint initiative for a smoke-free world.

The Formula 1 2018 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix which kicked off on April 6 will conclude later today (April 8), at Bahrain International Circuit (BIC).

It will be the car’s second race globally, and its first appearance in the GCC, said a statement from Philip Morris.

Scuderia Ferrari is the official name of the racing division of luxury Italian auto manufacturer, Ferrari, and the racing team that competes in Formula One racing.

The two companies recently extended their partnership until 2021, to advance the cause of a smoke-free world – a world in which all people who would otherwise continue smoking switch to scientifically substantiated less harmful smoke-free alternatives, it stated.

The agreement is another example of how Philip Morris is shifting resources from its cigarette business to activities that encourage all smokers to switch to better alternatives, and raise awareness among key stakeholders to accelerate the change, it added.

Lana Gamal El Din, corporate affairs director, Philip Morris Middle East, said: “Having the Ferrari Formula 1 car make its debut appearance in the GCC at the Grand Prix holds great significance.”

“Not only will it cement the commitment that we have made to the region, but it will also position Bahrain as a leader having taken steps in support of our vision towards providing smoke-free choices to adult smokers. This is an extremely bold move, and we’re very proud to have Ferrari as our longstanding partner,” she said.

Philip Morris International CEO André Calantzopoulos said: "We want to give the world’s 1.1 billion men and women who smoke the opportunity to make better and informed choices.”

“We are committed to use all available resources, including our motorsports related activities, to accelerate momentum around this revolutionary change for the benefit of people who smoke, public health and society at large. We deeply appreciate Scuderia Ferrari’s support in this cause,” he added.-TradeArabia News Service