IRL also eyeing New England, Las Vegas, Laguna Seca

The Indy Racing League's 2010 schedule was explained this weekend as a series of moving pieces.
A race, or perhaps two, at Burke Lakefront Airport in Cleveland, which seemed unlikely just a week ago, is back under consideration, according to Terry Angstadt, the league's president of the commercial division. Also back in the mix is New Hampshire Motor Speedway, which is led by Indiana native Jerry Gappens.

The IRL also is interested in a plan to build a road circuit around Gillette Stadium, home of the New England Patriots. That would be for 2012, however.

Angstadt said a schedule of between 16 and 18 races is expected to be announced as early as Aug. 1 at the league's race at Kentucky Speedway. The season-opening race — and maybe races — is expected to be in Brazil with Ribeiro Preto the most likely city to host the opener.

League officials also have had serious discussions with owners of Barber Motorsports Park outside Birmingham, Ala., Las Vegas Motor Speedway and Mazda Raceway in Monterey, Calif.

The IRL is hoping to hold a spot for Milwaukee if its promoter situation can be resolved. It has not received interest from the promoter in Surfers Paradise, Australia, which held its last race in October. Indy Star