Indianapolis, known as the �Racing Capital of the World,� is the host to the largest Formula One racing event in the world � the United States Grand Prix at Indianapolis. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway, rich with racing tradition, already plays host to the two largest single day sporting events in the world: Indianapolis 500 and NASCAR Winston Cup Series Brickyard 400. The United States Grand Prix is a three-day event, bringing Formula One back to the United States after its inaugural race in Indianapolis in 2000. An estimated 175,000 � 200,000 race fans call Indianapolis �home� for the United States Grand Prix.

Race fans find a number of differences, both on the track and in the cars, when Formula One comes to Indy. The main difference is highlighted by changes in the Speedway�s physical structure. Portions of the Speedway�s infield have been restructured to create a 2.61-mile (4.19 kilometers) road course with a total of 13 turns (four to the left and nine to the right).

The excitement builds as a field of 24 competitive drivers wait in highly sophisticated auto racing machines. They sit on the track, engines running. Formula One racing begins from a standstill, signaled by a series of five red lights that illuminate one by one and then go out all at once. In less than two hours after 73 laps are complete, totaling a race distance of 190.53 miles, the checkered flag flies.

Navigating through a difficult road course is a challenging task, especially when drivers average 130mph and rain or shine, the race continues. Unlike oval racing, road racing is not stopped because of rain. Because Formula One cars can be fitted with deeply grooved tires, drivers get enough traction to continue racing safely even with wet track conditions.

Formula One is the most technologically advanced racing series in the world. Annually, the top teams will spend more than $100 million to remain competitive on this circuit. Also, the global representation of teams and drivers adds an international flavor and prestige to this premiere auto racing series.

FAST FACTS - UNITED STATES GRAND PRIX

What: United States Grand Prix at
Indianapolis Formula One race

When: 20 June, 2004

Where Indianapolis Motor Speedway

Time: 1 p.m. (EST, local)
6 p.m. (GMT)

Qualifying: the preceeding day
1-2 p.m. (EST, local)
6-7 p.m. (GMT)

Road Course: Total track length:
2.606 miles (4.195 kilometers)

Main straight length:
3,037 feet (926 meters)

Back straight length:
1,755 feet (535 meters)

Total turns:
13 (Left turns - 4; Right turns - 9)

Average track width:
46 feet (14 meters)

Expected Lap Time: 72 seconds
Expected average speed: 130 mph (210 kph)
Expected highest speed: 187 mph (301 kph)
Race Distance: 190.294 miles (306.235 km), 73 laps
Maximum time for the race is two hours.

Seating capacity: 200,000 +

Inaugural Race Winner: Michael Schumacher, Team Ferrari