Sao Paulo, Not Rio

By Andrew Cutler
November 28 2009

The IRL has finally inked a formal deal for the opening round of the 2010 IndyCar Series. After spending several months looking at various potential venues in Brazil, they have chosen hold a race through the streets of Sao Paulo, to be run on March 14.

This was a somewhat unexpected move, as most journalists who cover the series were reporting that Rio de Janeiro would be the host city.

The layout and length of the track has not yet been revealed. It is also unclear if use of the Interlagos road course, where the F1 Brazilian Grand Prix is held, was considered at any point in the discussions.

While solidifying it's North American operations remains the IRL's top priority, holding an anual event in Brazil is a logical next step as the league looks to expand it's international following. Currently, five drivers (Castroneves, Kanaan, Matos, Meira & Moraes) hail from Brazil, which has a rich motorsports history & a large open-wheel fan base. In addition, APEX-Brasil, the league's ethanol supplier, is one of the IndyCar Series' largest sponsors: The potential to attract more Brazilian sponsors is another reason to go.

Sao Paulo, Not Rio

Posted by: Indy Racing League (IP Logged)

Date: 28/11/2009 13:19

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