IRL looks to race into Mexico

Indy Racing League officials were in Mexico City early this week to look at a possible location for a race there, which could be held as early as 2009. It may have to be pushed to 2010, depending on scheduling conflicts, but IRL officials are bullish on the market south of the border.

And Mexico City isn’t the only market in Mexico the IRL is considering, said sources within the league. If things can’t be worked out to bring a race to Mexico City, IRL officials have indicated they have other options in Mexico, which has a growing motorsports following and a solid corporate sponsorship base. The IRL is hoping to get everything worked out to make an announcement by mid-July about its plans in Mexico.

There are a number of markets worldwide the IRL is considering expanding into, but team and series officials have concerns about escalating expenses that go along with a longer season. Series officials also want to assure each new market has the infrastructure and marketing muscle to help the IRL grow.

So, do you think Mexico City is a good market for the IRL? And are there other cities south of the border where you think the IRL can flourish?