BRASILIA, Brazil - (Saturday, June 1, 2013) - One of the most anticipated returns to the racing world in many years will have to be put on hold at the opening round of the 2013 UIM F1 H2O World Championship here in Brasilia.

Paul Gaiser, native son of Brazil and driver of the Azerbaijan Team slipped and fell in his hotel bathroom Friday evening injuring his left hand to such an extent requiring medical attention from the official series doctor Francesco De Boccard.

"Paul had a distortion of his wrist with a possible fracture with his hand and I've now placed it in a cast making it impossible for him to race in this weekend's First Annual Grand Prix of Brazil," said Dr. De Boccard.

"I am so bitterly disappointed that I won't be able to race," said the driver from Rio de Janeiro. "I wanted to bring pride and honor to the many thousands of fans who will be attending the event here this weekend but now will be forced to be a spectator as well."

"I want to thank everyone who have sent good wishes and I hopefully will be recovered soon because I plan on racing again. I will not retire in such a manner and I look forward to more than ever to get back into a raceboat as soon as possible."

Paul's absence leaves the field of 17 pilots from 11 different nations ready to begin the Grand Prix on Saturday with practice followed by a one hour qualifying shootout beginning at 15:00 local 18:00 GMT to determine whom will take pole position for tomorrow's inaugural Grand Prix of Brazil at 11:00 local and 14:00 GMT.

The qualifying and Grand Prix can be followed in its entirety on the official website of the series at www.f1h2o.com.

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