Formula 1, UEFA, Maccabiah all on way to Jerusalem

Jerusalem is gearing up to host some world-class sports events so make sure to get your tickets ASAP so as not to miss out.

By LOREN MINSKY/ ITRAVELJERUSALEM.COM TEAM
Nir Barkat preparing for Formula 1 race in Jerusalem 370 (photo credit: Courtesy)
Nir Barkat preparing for Formula 1 race in Jerusalem 370
(photo credit: Courtesy)
Formula 1 Road Show
Although Jerusalem has experienced a lot in its long and ancient history, this June will be the first time ever that Formula One cars will race through its streets. The setting promises to be as unique as the city itself with the Old City walls and the city’s stunning attractions forming the backdrop along the route.
Some of the greatest professionals in the field will be arriving for the event including a team of drivers and technicians from Ferrari in Maranello, Italy.In addition to Formula One cars, Ferrari Challenge cars will also participate in demo drives, as well as drift cars with high horsepower V8 engines and other sports cars. The road show will include the best of the best race cars from Ferrari, Mercedes, Audi and more. Other anticipated highlights include a show by one of the world's best stunt riders, Chris Pfeiffer (Germany), as well as the first Superbike performance in Israel.
Known as “The Peace Road Show,” the organizers are aiming to bring together in Jerusalem motor sport fans of every race, religion and creed. Over a hundred thousand people are expected to attend. The good news for the public is that most viewing areas are totally free, however there will be raised terraced VIP seating at strategic locations along the way to guarantee an amazing view.The cars will be exhibited in advance of the show at the newly renovated First Station complex from June 9-13.When: June 13-14Price: Free; Tickets: NIS 350 – NIS 700 (including refreshments; the NIS 700 ticket includes free parking)
2013 UEFA European Under-21 Football Championship
Football fans will not want to miss out on the 2013 UEFA European Under-21 Football Championship games. After winning the bid to host the tournament, fifteen games will be held in four stadiums around Israel. The final game will take place at Teddy Stadium in Jerusalem, which acts as the home stadium to Beitar Jerusalem Football Club, Hapoel Jerusalem Football Club and Hapoel Katamon Jerusalem Football Club. Italy, Germany and Spain are just some of the countries that will take part in the tournament.
Israel’s only previous appearance in the finals was in 2007 in the Netherlands, where they finished without a point or a goal, but Coach Guy Luzon's aims to make the most of home advantage.The official Adidas match ball (blue and white in honor of Israel) is said to be the most rigorously tested that Adidas has ever produced and combines the latest technology with Adidas design. Leading Israeli pop starEyal Golan, and former football player, together with some of Israel's most renowned musicians produced the official song of the UEFA European Under-21 Championship: Always My Number 1. – set to become the nation’s anthem during the two week championship period.
When: June 5 - 19Where: Jerusalem and around Israel; Final performance at Teddy Stadium, Malha, JerusalemMaccabiah Games
Jerusalem will host the 19th Maccabiah Games, the world’s largest Jewish athletic competition that takes place every four years in Israel. The Opening Ceremony will take place at Teddy Stadium, and competitions continue until the end of July. This year’s Maccabiah will be the largest in history, with over nine thousand athletes representing 71 countries. One of the highlights of the games is that United States representative Ali Reisman, 2012 Olympic gymnastics gold winner, is said to be competing.
Photo: ItamarGrinberg
The closing celebration will also take place at Teddy Stadium. About 32,000 people are expected to attend, including Israel's President and Prime Minister, and many foreign and local dignitaries. The moving ceremony will include performances by world famous artists,the traditional athletes' march and the lighting of the Maccabiah torch.
When: July 18 - 31Address: Opening and closing ceremonies: Teddy Stadium, Malha, Jerusalem
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