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Detroit Grand Prix dropped from Indy schedule

(Agencies)
Updated: 2008-12-19 11:34

DETROIT - The Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix was dropped from the Indy Racing League (IRL) schedule on Thursday because of the deepening economic crisis in the Motor City.

Following talks with the city of Detroit, the state, sponsors and the race's sanctioning body, the IRL decided to postpone next year's event scheduled for September 4-6, according to a report in the Detroit Free Press.

"We've been evaluating for the last couple of months whether to cancel," Grand Prix chairman Bud Denker told the paper.

"The Grand Prix is supported by regional and national sponsors, the Big Three, Audi, Porsche. We consulted with the city, state and sponsors. Considering the tough times we're all experiencing, we just couldn't ask the parties to give, and give more.

"We think it's a prudent decision.

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"We're looking to take a pause with the race but we are optimistic we'll get through the speed bumps."

After a six-year absence, Indycar racing returned to Detroit in 2007 and staged two successful events on the island course which each attracted more than 100,000 spectators.

Motor races have come and gone in Detroit over the years.