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Other Sports => Other Sports => Topic started by: cosworth151 on September 12, 2007, 04:00:28 PM

Title: Champ Car at Laguna Seca
Post by: cosworth151 on September 12, 2007, 04:00:28 PM

Confirming reports published earlier in local area newspapers, the Champ Car World Series confirmed late Tuesday that it is transferring its Northern California event move from the streets of San Jose back to Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca in Monterey.

Organizers of the Grand Prix of San Jose recently informed the Champ Car World Series that on-going residential developments in and around the 1.5-mile downtown track would hamper next year’s race. For 2008, new housing developments on Balbach Street would affect the back straightaway, while upcoming construction in the Boston Properties lot would mean the loss of the race’s main “Gold Grandstands” on Almaden Boulevard.

"We're pleased that Champ Car will be able to maintain a strong event in northern California," said Steve Johnson, Champ Car President & CEO. "While it's always tough to leave one city for another, in this case, it makes sense strategically for us and works for San Jose given the on-going developments of their downtown. We enjoyed three great years in San Jose, and certainly anticipate that the fans there will head south to enjoy Champ Car racing at the beautiful Monterey Peninsula's Mazda Raceway circuit."

Considered one of the finest permanent road courses in North America, the 2.238-mile Monterey Peninsula's Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca will host its 23rd Champ Car World Series event next year at a date to be announced later. The first Champ Car event was held at Laguna in 1983, and though its long run of races ended the past three years, Champ Car returned there this year to conduct its pre-season testing. The testing also served as the official kick-off for the Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca's 50th Golden Anniversary season this year.

With few exceptions (Monaco, Albert Park, Belle Isle) I've never been a fan of cobbled together, concrete canyon street circuits. I'm glad to see Laguna return to the Champ Car schedule.

Cos

Title: Re: Champ Car at Laguna Seca
Post by: Ian on September 12, 2007, 08:20:01 PM

That is one good circuit Cos.  :good: