Champ Car on track in Australia until 2013

Australia's biggest motor sport event, the Lexmark Indy 300, is set to be locked in under a super deal keeping the event in Surfers Paradise until 2013. AutoRacing1.com has learned that race organizers, backed by the local government, have had secret talks with Kevin Kalkhoven and its joint managers IMG to extend the present contract 5 more years from 2008 until 2013. Queensland Premier Peter Beattie has confirmed his support, especially with a 2nd Australian team run by Paul Stoddart said to be in the works.

IMG chief Martin Jolly, who heads up the company’s Asia-Pacific arm said, "we've already entered into discussions with Champ Car about an extension of the contract and they're very keen to expand."