It is unclear at this stage whether there will be a US Grand Prix in 2008, at another venue, or if the event will simply be replaced in the calendar.
Indianapolis has hosted the US Grand Prix in eight consecutive years since 2000. George expressed his hope that the event would return to Indianapolis at some point. "After several discussions, Bernie Ecclestone and I were unable to agree how to keep Formula One in Indianapolis for the near term," George said. "However, we have agreed to leave the door open for a potential future date.
"It has been a pleasure having the United States Grand Prix at Indianapolis, and I hope that as we approach our Centennial Era at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, an opportunity might present itself that would allow its return."
The 2007 event was June 17 and was won by British rookie Lewis Hamilton. At the time, George and Ecclestone agreed to a mid-July deadline for a decision about future events.
George said, “Bernie and I had several discussions that led us to this decision and announcement, but we did agree it was prudent to try to leave the door open for the future. With that, the near-term communication is that Formula One will not be back next year, but it's my sincere hope that we'll have the opportunity to bring it back in the not-too-distant future.”
