IndyCar will not return to Phoenix in 2019

The Verizon IndyCar Series will not return to ISM Raceway in Phoenix in 2019.

The one-mile oval, originally constructed as a circuit for Indy cars in 1964, was among the most popular and well-attended events on the calendar for many decades, but upon the series’ return in 2016, the same interest in open-wheel racing was lower than anticipated.

A similar phenomenon occurred in 2017 and again in April, and with the three-year contract at its conclusion, the series and the track opted to end the experiment.

“INDYCAR has enjoyed its time racing at ISM Raceway, but attendance in the past three years has been disappointing despite considerable investment from both sides,” the series said in a prepared statement.

“Track president Bryan Sperber and his team have been terrific partners and are developing a beautiful facility, and INDYCAR will reconnect with them when conditions are right for both parties. Meanwhile, INDYCAR is moving forward with building a terrific schedule for the 2019 season.”