Honda's IndyCar project leader is optimistic that Ford will reconsider comments made last week in which the American manufacturer ruled out any IndyCar program in the foreseeable future.

Edsel Ford II, great-grandson of Henry Ford and a member of the Ford Motor Company board of directors, was quoted at a private event saying that IndyCar's support base is too small to make it worthwhile. HPD IndyCar project leader Mark Crawford said that he respects Ford's opinion, but that he believes that he has underestimated the value of being involved in the series.

"It's his prerogative to have his opinion on IndyCar racing," Crawford said. "It's certainly good to get it out there. We would welcome any competitor back into the series, and Ford has been a good competitor in the past.