A spokesman for the Indianapolis Motor Speedway has played down claims that talks are taking place to reinstate a US Grand Prix at the famous venue.

Although Bernie Ecclestone said in Bahrain that a return to Indianapolis was possible, a circuit spokesman told the Indianapolis Business Journal an imminent return was unlikely. "We continue to have dialogue with Formula One, and we've long maintained we're interested in hosting their events."

A second spokesman, Eric Powell, also told the Indy Star that specific talks are not currently taking place. "In terms of negotiations, nothing is happening at this time," he said. "We would love to have Formula One in Indianapolis. We feel this is the best venue for Formula One in the United States."

The last grand prix to be held in Indianapolis was won by Lewis Hamilton in 2007, two years after Michelin's withdrawal on safety grounds led to a farcical six-car race.