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INDYCAR: Detroit Cancelled for 2009, Vision Racing Trims Staff
Written by: Robin Miller   
12/18/2008
Indianapolis, IN
 
Justin Wilson's win at the celebrated Detroit track in 2008 will be the last for the immediate future. (LAT photo) » More Photos


The economy has claimed its first major victim in IndyCar. SPEEDTV.com has learned that next year's Detroit Grand Prix has been postponed and there will be an official announcement Friday. Roger Penske had revived the race, held on Belle Isle, in 2007 after getting private donations and sponsorships of an estimated $7 million to upgrade the paddock and temporary road course bordered by the Detroit River.

In addition to getting presenting sponsorship from Firestone and Bosch, Penske reportedly also spent his own money the past two years. But, according to sources in Detroit, the corporate sponsorship for the Sept. 6, 2009 event have "dried up" and the decision has been made to postpone the 16th of 18 races on the '09 Indycar schedule. It's not known whether IndyCar will try to replace Detroit but new venues like Birmingham, Ala. and Utah have expressed interest, as well as a street race in Nashville, Tenn. and the longtime road course in Portland.
A.J. Foyt IV has an uncertain future at Vision Racing for 2009. (LAT photo) » More Photos
"We look at that weekend as a very valuable part of our schedule," said John Griffin, vice president of IRL public relations. "It's a big motorsports weekend. "But what we're going to do, short term or long term, won't be decided quickly."

CUTS AT VISION, IMS

Tony George laid off 12 members of his Vision Racing team last week and
is currently seeking sponsorship in order to keep Anthony Foyt IV on track. There were also cuts at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and Indy Racing League, but no number was available.



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