Grand Prix Making A Return To Belle Isle?

DETROIT (WWJ) - Detroiters could soon hear the four most famous words in auto racing: "Drivers, start your engines!" WWJ's Mike Campbell reports the Detroit Grand Prix could be returning to Belle Isle, after a four year absence.

City officials have received a request from racing officials to hold the race, the first step in a possible return to the Motor City.

Race organizer Bud Denker of the Penske Corp. said they're hoping to have the races back on Belle Isle next summer.

Detroit City Council could approve the request as early as next week, setting the stage for the race's return next June.

The Detroit Metro Convention and Visitors Bureau said the last time the races were held in 2008, more than 100,000 people made the trip Downtown, generating about $55 million in economic impact. In preparation of those 2008 races, the city spent $7 million in renovations to the course and the island.

IndyCar races were held on the island from 1990 to 2001 and again in 2007 and 2008. The city also hosted Formula One races downtown in the 1980s.