4 Races ( Human, Sylvari, Norn, Asura ) 8 Professions ( Warrior, Mesmer, Ranger, Guardian, Elementalist, Necromancer, Engineer, Thief )
They had planned for 12 professions or classes (whichever you like to call it) but they only stuck with 8 for now. I'd imagine we'll see the rest in expansions.
The races seem very cool the centaur seems cool the Sylvari. I am choosing the human when this game comes out thought. I am human and think the human can be the strongest one in the game! Because we are the strongest in the world! and possibly the universe.