Grand Prix of Cleveland still hopes to join IRL schedule

The Grand Prix of Cleveland remains in limbo, but race promoters remain optimistic that the event will return.

The Cleveland race was not among the three Champ Car events that were included as part of the new IRL schedule for 2008 following the unification of the two series.

At the time, it was anticipated that the race would be added for next year, but that didn't happen. Now, Cleveland promoters are working toward 2010.

"We still are very encouraged," said Chuck Kosich, general manager for MJ Promotions, which promotes the Cleveland race.

"They [the IRL] have our information. We're hoping by the middle of January we can hear something from them about what direction they are going for the 2010 schedule. We have sold none of our assets in hopes of something positive in the near future." Cleveland Plain Dealer