Brickyard drops off the Formula 1 2008 calendar, though the Indianapolis door is left open for potential future races. This was the mutual agreement between Tony George, the CEO of Indianapolis Motor Speedway and Formula One Management Ltd. CEO Bernie Ecclestone.

In June this year, at the 2007 event, George and Ecclestone agreed to a mid-July deadline for a decision about future events. According to the speedway officials, they needed a long term solution and not the one-year agreement the speedway officials achieved with Ecclestone last year.

According to the estimates, the attendance at Indianapolis has always been good at around 125,000 people. It is believed that the inaugural race in 2000 drew more than 200,000 people. Exact figures have never been published but it was apparent the US Grand Prix has been a popular event. But in 2005 the event was spoiled. 14 of the 20 drivers pulled off the track just before the start over concerns about the safety of the Michelin tires used by seven teams. Tony George even refused to wave the checkered flag or join Michael Schumacher in the winner’s circle. Furious and dissapointed spectators and Formula 1 fans threw beer cans on the race.

With or without the Formula 1 event, the speedway most likely will be the site for three races next year. Along with Indianapolis 500 and NASCAR's Allstate 400, the Brickyard will be hosting the MotoGP World Championship in 2008. Confirmation still pending on this.

But the Brickyard won't be the same without Formula 1 and I hope someday the sound of the Formula 1 car engines will be heard on this fast and wonderful motorway.