Formula One officials are in discussions to take a race back to North America by 2010 after the region was dropped from next season's calendar, a team executive said today.
The 2009 Canadian Grand Prix was removed after a contractual dispute between the organizers and bosses of the world's most popular auto-racing series. An event at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway dropped off this year's calendar after eight years.
``It's a vital market not only for the car manufacturers but also for many of the sponsors,'' Honda Racing Chief Executive Officer Nick Fry said in an interview. ``A quick return to North America would be positive for Formula One.''
Formula One has been moving races to Asia and the Middle East in recent years, including the first night event, which took place in Singapore in September. Fry said several options are being studied in North America.
``I know that discussions are proceeding at pace on other venues in America and all the teams are extremely hopeful those come to fruition as early as possible,'' he said.
Montreal's Circuit Gilles Villeneuve has hosted a race since 1978.
A U.S. event may be held on a track near one of the country's biggest cities, he said. Britain's Lewis Hamilton last weekend won the Formula One championship, becoming the youngest world champion at age 23.
``Going back to Indianapolis is one option,'' Fry said. ``But from a brand point of view, to be on the East Coast in New York or somewhere on the West Coast would be better in terms of a Formula One brand and also for our sponsors.''
