American Le Mans aims for 2013 Detroit return as date clash prevents 2012 race
The American Le Mans Series hopes to return to Detroit in 2013, as a scheduling conflict will prevent it being part of the revived IndyCar event on the Belle Isle street circuit next season
IndyCar and the ALMS had shared the bill in Detroit when the course was last used in 2007 and '08.
It was announced today that IndyCar would return to the city for a 1-3 June event next season, but this is the same weekend as the official test day for the Le Mans 24 Hours. The ALMS leaves a gap in its calendar to allow its teams to contest the French classic.
ALMS chief Scott Atherton is optimistic that the schedule conflict can be resolved to allow the series to race in Detroit again in 2013.
"While we enjoyed being a very successful part of the renaissance of this great race on Belle Isle in 2007 and again in 2008, the 2012 Detroit race and the Le Mans test day next year share the same date on the calendar, creating a direct conflict which could not be resolved for 2012," Atherton said.
"In 2013 however, we foresee a resolution of the date conflict with the Le Mans test day, enabling the ALMS to compete in the Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix. While our participation in this classic Motor City race is not possible in 2012, we will continue to work hard with everyone involved to take part in 2013."
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