Belle Isle in Detroit, Michigan, has hosted the Detroit Grand Prix faithfully since 2012, but following the latest contract expiration, the event’s fate hung in the balance. Race officials will present their latest plan to the Belle Isle Advisory Committee to secure the location for future grand prix races this coming Friday. And it could get a boost from a reimagined Detroit Auto Show.
The Detroit News reported on Tuesday that the committee will hear a detailed plan to keep the race event at Belle Isle. The Grand Prix pays $200,000 annually to hold the event at Belle Isle.
Although some opponents to the Detroit Grand Prix believe Belle Isle isn’t a suitable place, Grand Prix Chairman Bud Denker said the benefits outweigh any possible issues. He said Belle Isle wasn’t a “very good place” when the race arrived in 2007 and he credits the race with pouring multiple improvements into the venue.
“We built two bridges, fixed the roadways, fixed the drainage, added playgrounds and beautiful lighting,” he added.
The event has also created new jobs for residents.
If the Detroit Grand Prix continues on, it could get a big boost from the North American International Auto Show, or Detroit Auto Show. The latest report suggested the show will move to June and it could use the Grand Prix as a springboard before the show begins.
Comment
It’s a great event, please let’s keep it, I promise to go regularly and buy tickets and hotel nights and food.
It looks great on TV, and it’s nice to celebrate Motown for Motors as well as fantastic music.
Combining it with the Car Show is something I have hoped for many years now. I love races, but I only see meager Corp displays in the paddock. I love car shows, but I only see occasional classic race cars in static displays. I really want both together.
Look at the Berlin ePrix. The cars race on the track directly through the event-marquis right under the noses of the champagne-swilling guests next to brand-new and future road cars. What’s not to like? Just change the champers for Detroit Craft Brew and add the NOISE !!!