It will be beauty versus brawn at the Mazda3 Celebrity Challenge when former Miss Universe Australia, Rachael Finch lines up against recently retired Socceroo and Premier League veteran, Brett Emerton at the 2014 Formula 1+é-« Rolex Australian Grand Prix.

The popular Sydney identities were announced today to join the star-studded line-up that includes snowboarder Torah Bright and comedian Dave Thornton, to race the stunning All-New Mazda3, around the iconic Albert Park circuit.

New mother Finch, who withdrew from the 2013 Celebrity Challenge race when she fell pregnant with daughter Violet, spoke of her excitement of being given a second chance to participate.

"I am super excited to be involved in the race this year, it makes it even more special that my husband and daughter will be cheering me on from the grandstand." beamed Rachael.

"I've heard so much about the Celebrity Challenge from previous contestants and I can't wait for this new experience".

Emerton, who spent almost a decade playing in the English Premier League, said the competitive edge which kept him in professional soccer for so many years would give him an advantage over his fellow celebrity drivers.

"It's not very often that opportunities like this come along." said Emerton.

"I've had so many incredible experiences through football including being able to represent my country in the World Cup twice. The Mazda3 Celebrity Challenge is another one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences and I can't wait to get out on the track and hopefully finish on the podium."

The Mazda3 Celebrity Challenge will feature 20 vehicles and will bring together celebrities from a wide variety of backgrounds and disciplines to compete at Melbourne's spectacular Albert Park street circuit during the 2014 Formula 1+é-« Rolex Australian Grand Prix.

Confirmed drivers for the 2014 Mazda3 Celebrity Challenge include:

Re-designed from the ground up, All-New Mazda3 adopts the stylish ‘KODO - Soul of Motion' design language and the full suite of efficient SKYACTIV Technologies.

Drivers will be better connected than ever before thanks to a new car connectivity system that allows easier access to phone, email and SMS, as well as Stitcher+óGÇP-ó, Aha+óGÇP-ó and Pandora+é-«.

Including an Active Driving Display, All-New Mazda3 is on sale now and is expected to be a favourite with Australia's new car buyers.

Ends

2014 Formula 1+é-« Rolex Australian Grand Prix +óGÇö-Å Albert Park +óGÇö-Å 13 +óGé¼GÇ£ 16 March
For bookings and more information visit www.grandprix.com.au or www.mazda.com.au
#Madza3CelebGP
Media contacts: Steve Maciver (Mazda) +61 3 8540 1961 and Phoebe O'Sullivan (AGPC) +61 400 963 062