In Astana, the BRD AUTO SHOW and FESTIVAL, scheduled for August 15-16 at the Argyrnak Hippodrome, was canceled just before it was set to begin. The reason was a ban imposed by the city's akimat, according to infohub.kz.
The show's program included an exhibition of unique cars and motorcycles, drifting and spectacular stunt performances, car audio competitions, performances by artists and DJ sets, interactive zones, prize draws and award ceremonies, special nominations featuring well-known Kazakh auto bloggers, racing simulators and photo zones, a karting area, a food court, and a relaxation zone.
However, in the morning, organizers and guests were met by akimat officials and police. Ardan Aralbayev, chief specialist of the Department of Public and Political Work and Social Advertising of Astana's Internal Policy Department, explained to those gathered that the event was canceled due to non-compliance with safety instructions for holding mass sports and entertainment events.
When asked who would bear responsibility for financial costs and ticket refunds, organizers were told they could go to court if they wished. "Dear citizens, peaceful gatherings and processions are held only with the consent of the Astana akimat. I ask you to stop this event, as it has not been approved," announced Ruslan Sabitov, an employee of the Nura district akimat apparatus, over a loudspeaker.
Even the request of Anatoly Bondar, head of the Astana Motor Sport Federation, to allow the last festival to take place, after which the federation would cease its activities, had no effect. "We have held more than 500 events in Kazakhstan together with the authorities. I am ready to hold the last event today under my guarantee. The guys will just stand around; there will be no stages, noise, or music, but with this we are winding down the federation," Bondar stated.
After that, police asked those present to disperse, warning that otherwise the gathering would be considered illegal and police would take measures.
One of the organizers, Dmitry Karpinsky, said that the hippodrome territory had been rented for two days and that the organizers had all the necessary permits to hold the auto show. About 2,000 tickets had been sold for the first day, priced from 3,000 to 8,000 tenge. "Police began restricting access of cars to the site as early as yesterday evening. I have filed a corresponding statement. Now we will consult with lawyers, and we will refund the ticket money. I have not received an official document on closing the territory and setting up a cordon," he said.
After that, organizers, participants, and guests of the festival began to disperse.