Europe rounds still possible for '07

The German track had been one of four venues mooted for a round of the series in 2007 - along with Athens (street track) in Greece, Assen in Holland, and the Lausitz road-course in Germany.

However, after Champ Car and Assen had signed a memorandum of understanding, the hopes of a European excursion for the US-based series had taken a dive when it was decided that an Athens race would not be feasible within the time frame.

Champ Car had long held to the philosophy that a trip to Europe would only be financially worthwhile if there could be two rounds held on consecutive weekends.

Now, though, with Oschersleben's owners signing a five-year memorandum of understanding, a European foray is distinctly feasible.

Champ Car president Steve Johnson would not go as far as confirming a double-headed European trip for 2007 but stated that "things were progressing nicely."

He also told autosport.com that he hopes to announce next year's calendar "within the next two weeks" and that there is likely to be "15 or 16 rounds."