US F1 Update

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AutoWeek.com update:

" Formula One's latest opportunity to return to the United States could feature New York City as a backdrop, according to a report Tuesday in the Jersey Journal.

The plan--submitted by a Jersey City, N.J.-funded tourism agency called Destination Jersey City--calls for F1 to race in Liberty State Park as soon as 2012. The promotional materials include a proposed design for a 3.6-mile road course, and for at least a five-year contract to host a race.

"With the incredible backdrop of the New York City skyline, selecting Jersey City for the 2012 Grand Prix Auto Race Circuit will not only boost ticket sales as the Grand Prix returns to the United States, but will provide striking television footage," the proposal said. It also included the idea to hold the race at night, similar to the Singapore GP.

However, the concept is meeting strong resistance, according to the Jersey Journal.

"People come to [the park] to seek a haven, oasis, refuge and sanctuary, and such a Grand Prix racing event that needs all park roads is contrary to the spirit and essence of an urban open-space park," said the president of the Friends of Liberty State Park in a letter written to Jersey City Mayor Jerramiah T. Healy.

"This was a response to an overture made by Formula One and Jersey City is one of several cities they are pursuing," Healy said in a statement. "There have been a few preliminary conversations, and this is very much in the exploratory phase. However, this may not be something that is in the best interest of Jersey City or Liberty State Park."

The United States has not hosted a Grand Prix since the 2007 event at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Interestingly, former IMS boss Tony George was spotted at the most recent F1 race, in China, fueling speculation that he is working to find a way to revive that race. "


AutoWeek | Updated: 05/04/10, 11:55 am et