The 2017 Verizon IndyCar Series calendar has been revealed, and it continues with the same circuits of 2016 plus the return to Gateway Motorsports Park.
The championship has also announced a new long-term deal with Watkins Glen International, which came onto this year’s schedule late due to the cancellation of the Boston street race.
Gateway returns to the calendar for the first time since 2003, and Curtis Francois, the owner of Gateway Motorsports Park, has welcomed IndyCar back to the circuit.
“Today is a monumental day for the people of the St. Louis region,” said Francois. “I am proud of the progress we’ve made at my hometown track.
“I knew someday we would be making an announcement like this because I have such confidence in the people of this region and their commitment to great sporting events. More than a dozen track operators around the country sought this INDYCAR race for their communities.
“I firmly believe we came out on top because of the energy, loyalty and commitment to great sports that sports fans of all kinds demonstrate each day in this community.”
The season will once again open with a race around the streets of St Petersburg and conclude with a trip to Sonoma Raceway, with the 2017 season set to end on 17 September.
“The release of the 2017 Verizon IndyCar Series schedule continues to build upon the success INDYCAR has experienced the last three years and establishes continuity and consistency in our event calendar,” said Mark Miles, CEO of Hulman & Co., the parent of INDYCAR and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
“As a series we are working diligently to create long-term relationships with our promoters to establish date equity and to provide them with the opportunity to initiate ticket renewals and event promotions earlier, which is pivotal to continuing the increase in attendance at our events.
“The addition of Gateway Motorsports Park and the return of Watkins Glen International are integral to the continued growth of INDYCAR. Gateway officials have been enthusiastic about the prospect of hosting a Verizon IndyCar Series event for some time and we’re excited to bring the series to the St. Louis market.
“Watkins Glen is an iconic American road course that is revered by our fans, drivers and teams. Our goal from the beginning was to establish a long-term agreement and we’re thrilled that we’ve been able to extend this relationship for the future.”
2017 Verizon IndyCar Series Season Schedule
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