Briscoe and Castroneves to attend Long Beach race

After racing in the Japan Indy 300 both Team Penske drivers will head straight to Long Beach, CA to watch their fellow competitors race in the final event of the Champ Car World Series – the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach; as well as support their Penske Racing teammates as they race their LMP2 Porsches in the ALMS race. Castroneves and Briscoe will check out the track in anticipation of competing at the temporary street circuit, as the IndyCar Series is expected to race there in 2009.

“I’m really looking forward to attending the Long Beach race this weekend, as it’s always been a fantastic event," said Castroneves. “The last time I was there (2001), I was lucky enough to win the race from the pole and it will be great to watch the other members of our Series compete against one another this weekend. Hopefully I’ll be able to learn a few things that will help us when we all return in 2009."

[Editor's Note: Because almost all drivers will leave Motegi right after the race on Friday night (USA time) and arrive back in the USA via nearby Los Angeles International Airport, expect more IRL drivers and officials in Long Beach on Sunday]