TONY GEORGE: Today I want to let everyone know that unfortunately, and to my great disappointment, Formula One will not be back next year, in 2008. And beyond that, Bernie and I had several discussions that led us to this decision and announcement, but we did agree it was prudent to try to leave the door open for the future. With that, the near-term communication is that Formula One will not be back next year, but it’s my sincere hope that we’ll have the opportunity to bring it back in the not-too-distant future.
QUESTION: The decision to bring the motorcycle race here, how much flexibility did that allow you to go with a strict number of what you’d be willing to pay, and not necessarily negotiate?
GEORGE: The decision to not have a round of the World Championship here next year was considered totally independently of any consideration being given to having a motorcycle race here. It was strictly a business decision and there are a lot of factors that weigh into that, but it was a decision that weighed solely on that.
There is precedent for Bernie to not agree to a contract now and then suddenly add an event to the schedule later in the year. Is there a chance a USGP could still happen in 2008 here, or somewhere else in the country?
GEORGE: I wouldn’t have any insight as to whether there will be another round scheduled in the U.S. in 2008. I don’t believe there will be, but that would be something that was arrived at without my being involved. I know a preliminary schedule had been released with Indianapolis on it. Again, my hope is for the future that we’ll be able to bring all of the components that are important to a successful event together so that we can one day bring it back here.
