CICERO, Ill -- Officials of Chicago Motor Speedway today suspended the track's 2002 auto racing schedule, which includes the CART FedEx Series™ Target Grand Prix and the Sears Craftsman 175 in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. Horse racing at Sportsman's Park is unaffected.
Chicago Motor Speedway Chairman Charles Bidwill and President Chip Ganassi determined that the races are not financially feasible at the present time due to business and economic conditions in the motorsports industry today.
"The people of Chicago and our sponsors have supported auto racing and other events at the Speedway, and we look forward to providing this region with continued entertainment and sporting events in the future. With the entire industry in a period of widespread change, we know it's the appropriate decision." Bidwill said. "However, we remain excited about the upcoming horse racing season at Sportsman's Park, the 70th year of thoroughbred racing here. Our energies are fully focused on Sportsman's," he added.
"Since the inaugural Target Grand Prix in 1999, the outstanding professionals at CART racing have provided many thrills and our fans have shown their appreciation," Ganassi said.
The track will continue to host a variety of events, including concerts, and Sportsman's Park remains an integral part of horseracing in Illinois. The traditional spring season at Sportsman's begins March 1st and concludes on Kentucky Derby day, May 4th.
