Indianapolis set to host 2006 GP

This year's US Grand Prix turned into a farcical race

The US Grand Prix is set to return to Indianapolis next year despite the problems surrounding this year's race.

Only six cars took part after safety fears over Michelin tyres forced the other teams to pull out.

But the Indianapolis Motor Speedway has confirmed that the 2006 race will be held on 2 July, subject fo final approval by the governing FIA.

"The Indianapolis Motor Speedway will be prepared for the 2006 US Grand Prix," said president Joie Chitwood.

He added: "The IMS staff never stopped working on 2006 and promoting Formula One racing in the U.S."

Angry fans hurled bottles and cans on the track and there were fears that Formula One would not return to the Brickyard again.

Sports marketer Mark Ganis of Sportscorp in Chicago said next year's race could determine the future of F1 racing in the United States.

"They'd better have this race go off without a hitch and find some fan-friendly activities," he said.

"It left a bad taste in a lot of fans' mouths. They must make sure nothing goes wrong."