Grand Prix of Houston Statement Regarding Open-Wheel Unification

[Todd Benne]

American LeMans Series To Headline Weekend’s Activities

HOUSTON, Feb. 22, 2008 - After owners of Champ Car and the Indy Racing League completed an agreement in principle Friday that will unify the sport for 2008, the Grand Prix of Houston announced that the 2008 event will not include the Champ Car World Series.

Statement from Michael T. Lanigan, owner/chairman of the Grand Prix of Houston:

“We were surprised by today’s announcement, but as stakeholders and fans of open-wheel racing we are pleased that there is now one unified open-wheel racing series in the United States. Due to the complicated and last-minute nature of this unification, the Houston date could not be accommodated for 2008. However, I had a very encouraging conversation with Tony George today and we are excited about the prospect of bringing this new series to Houston in 2009.

We are very comfortable with the idea of holding our 2008 event with the American Le Mans Series headlining our weekend festivities, but need to explore the possibility of bringing on additional racing events and attractions to enhance the weekend. We have some issues to work through with our partners including Reliant Park and the American Le Mans Series, but we are excited about 2008 and we expect more details to follow soon.”

About the Grand Prix of Houston

The 2008 Grand Prix of Houston will take place April 25-27 at Houston’s JAGFlo Speedway at Reliant Park. The event will feature a spectacular combination of racing and activities, highlighted by world-class racing from the American Le Mans Series. JAGFlo Speedway at Reliant Park is a temporary 1.7mile course constructed around Reliant Stadium and the historic Reliant Astrodome. In addition to the high-speed thrills of world-class racing, a wide variety of entertainment and activities is being scheduled for people of all ages to create an exciting three days of speed and entertainment. Tickets are available online at grandprixofhouston.com or ticketmaster.com, by phone at 713.629.3700, in person at the Reliant Stadium South Box Office, and at all Ticketmaster Ticket Centers including Houston-area locations of Macy’s, Fiesta, and Wherehouse Music. For more information please visit 2008 Grand Prix of Houston :: Official Site.