Homestead Fla. — In a press conference during the recently completed Spring Training, Emerson Fittipaldi was named the Grand Marshal for the Grand Prix of Miami, presented by Toyota, March 2 at the Metro-Dade Homestead Motorsports Complex.

"Emerson Fittipaldi is one of the major reasons we have such an outstanding motorsports tradition in South Florida and are celebrating our 15th anniversary this year," said Ralph Sanchez, president of Miami Motorsports. "He has been and continues to be a worldwide ambassador for his sport and his home. We are extremely proud to recognize Emmo at the Grand Prix of Miami, presented by Toyota, next month."

Fittipaldi, a Key Biscayne, Florida resident, is continuing his physical therapy after being seriously injured in July during an accident at the Michigan 500.

Despite a published report, he has not made a decision about his racing career. "I will not make any decision for 1997 or the future," Fittipaldi said. "My right arm and right hand are weak and driving an Indy car I would not be able to be fast or quick. You need to be 100 percent and I'm not there yet."

Source: CART News Service