Saif and Anil to begin shooting for Race 2

Taking forward the story of the 2008 suspense thriller Race, its sequel Race 2 will go on floors early next year with Saif Ali Khan and Anil Kapoor reprising the lead roles.

Taking forward the story of the 2008 suspense thriller Race, its sequel Race 2 will go on floors early next year with Saif Ali Khan and Anil Kapoor reprising the lead roles.

"The script of Race 2would be finalised by the end of this year. The film will go on floors by February or March 2010. Saif Ali Khan and Anil Kapoor have been confirmed for the lead roles," producer Ramesh Taurani told PTI.

The gripping multi-starrer Race directed by Abbas-Mustan, had Saif Ali Khan and Akshaye Khanna playing brothers, while Anil Kapoor played a private detective.

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Also starring Bipasha Basu and Katrina Kaif, the action flick went on to become the fourth biggest Bollywood hit of 2008.

According to industry buzz Bipasha Basu is being replaced by Saif's girlfriend Kareena Kapoor in the sequel.

Taurani, however, said, "As of now, we are yet to finalise on the female lead."

To be directed by Abbas-Mustan, the sequel will take the story forward from where it ended in the first film.

"The story of the film is going to start from where it ended in Race. It will also be a shocking thriller, with lots of twists and turns. We will maintain the USP of Race in its sequel," said the producer, who is riding high on the success of Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani produced by his banner Tips Music Films.