A report in the Arizona Daily Star claims that a 400-acre site near Tucson has been identified as a potential site for a motor-racing circuit which, the paper claims, could be used by Formula One.

Formula One returned to the USA last year at Austin and a second race in New Jersey is on the cards for 2014 with talk of a third event at Long Beach to follow. This makes the idea that Tucson is on the radar seem unlikely.

The local authorities are investigating the commercial details of building a track to house open-wheel racing which would complement the nearby Tucson Speedway which is used for NASCAR.

The county has been looking to expand racing facilities since at least 2010, according to county documents unveiled by the paper which added: "With no nearby neighbors to complain about the noise, the fairgrounds are perfect for Formula One racing."

Even if the plans get the go ahead it is likely to be several years before the track is up and running, and even then the owners will have to do what it takes to convince Bernie Ecclestone that Arizona is where the future lies.

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