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Grand Prix Arizona
Downtown Phoenix Is Coverted Into a Champ Car Race Track

By Judy Hedding, About.com

Grand Prix Arizona© Grand Prix Arizona, used with permission
UPDATE: Citing a lack of corporate support due to an uncertain economy, the organizers of the Grand Prix Arizona Champ Car race have determined that it is no longer viable and are canceling the event for 2007. People who have already purchased their tickets online will receive an automatic refund. Those who purchased their tickets at Ticketmaster outlets will have to go to back to receive the refund.

This decision has no impact on the Vegas Grand Prix.

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I remember the races that were conducted in the streets of downtown Phoenix from 1989 to 1991. I worked in a downtown high rise at the time, and I viewed the excitement from the comfort of a rooftop corporate party.

In December 2007, the roaring engines will return when Grand Prix Arizona makes its debut in Arizona. Unlike the Formula One racing we hosted nearly 20 years ago, Grand Prix Arizona is about Champ Car racing. As a matter of fact, Grand Prix Arizona is the final racing event for the 2007 Champ Car World Series.

What is Champ Car racing?

The race cars that compete in the Champ Car World Series are “open wheel” race cars, which have 750 horsepower and can top speeds of 180 mph. Past series champions include Al Unser Jr. (1990 and 1994), Michael Andretti (1991), Danny Sullivan (1988) and Bobby Rahal (1992).

When is the Grand Prix Arizona?

November 30 through December 2, 2007

Do you have pictures of Grand Prix Arizona?

Since this will be the first Grand Prix Arizona, no photos of the event exist yet. Here are some photos from the Las Vegas Grand Prix held earlier in 2007.

Where is Grand Prix Arizona?

The downtown Phoenix circuit will be 2.11 miles long and will encircle Chase Field and the US Airways Center. The circuit will begin on Jefferson Street, go south on 7th Street, east on Lincoln Street (with some turns), north on 1st Avenue across a portion of Madison Street and back to Jefferson Street.

How do I get tickets for Grand Prix Arizona and how much are they?

Tickets will be sold by Ticketmaster. Here are all your Ticketmaster options.

Prices for Grand Prix Arizona tickets are:

Trackside Viewing (No Seats)
$40 Saturday and Sunday
$20 Saturday only
$30 Sunday only

Family Fun Pack
Includes tickets to Family Grandstand at Turn 4 and free admission to Family Fun Zone. $100

Reserved Grandstand Seats
Includes paddock access.
$99 2-day reserved/3-day admission
$40 Saturday only
$75 Sunday only

Private suites and VIP seating packages are also available.

Are discounts to Grand Prix Arizona available?

Not that I know of. If I hear of any promotions as we get closer, I'll add them here.

Does Grand Prix Arizona need volunteers?

Yes, they do. Check here for a listing of volunteer opportunities and the commitment involved. Keep in mind that volunteers won't necessarily be able to watch the race.

What else should I know about Grand Prix Arizona?

Phoenix is one of only 15 cities throughout the world to host the Champ Car World Series. As the final race of the season, the entire Champ Car league will be present and will host its year-end awards ceremony and banquet. But the Grand Prix Arizona is much more than just a car race. It's a three day festival that will include live concerts by nationally known artists, extreme sports demonstrations, a "Green" Expo, and the "Taste of Phoenix" food festival.

What if I have more questions about Grand Prix Arizona?

For more information, contact Grand Prix Arizona at 602-889-3090 or visit Grand Prix Arizona online.

All dates, times, prices and offerings are subject to change without notice.

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