The Motocross des Nations is scheduled to take place September 27 through September 29 at Competition Park in Riverside County, California. A local newspaper report indicates an Indian tribe may close the facility and place the race in jeopardy, however.
According to the Press Enterprise (September 11, 2002 edition) Competition Park is located, at least in part, on land controlled by the Soboba tribe of Luiseno Indians. The Press Enterprise reports that the tribe’s general council voted last weekend to shut down the track, effective immediately.
The FIM, which controls the prestigious event drawing three-member teams from 27 nations, approved the facility even though it is virtually new — having relocated within the last year to the Indian reservation.
Obviously, it would be a logistical nightmare to reschedule the race, or change its location, with just two and one-half weeks to go. We will keep you posted on further developments.
