From GMM

Hopes that Jersey City could host the United States Grand Prix in the near future were dealt a blow on Wednesday.

Barely 24 hours ago it emerged that officials were in preliminary talks to hold a night race beginning in 2012 inside Liberty State Park, amid the backdrop of the New York skyline.

Mayor Jerramiah Healy has now backed a public opposition group in warning the city's Tourism Office to scrap the plans.

"I have come to the same conclusion ... that this type of event is not suited for Liberty State Park," he said in a statement.

"While we work to attract national and international events to our city, we must ensure that they are appropriate and will have the least impact upon the quality of life of our residents and our community," mayor Healy added.

Moreover, state officials who operate the public park are not confirming if the venue will be approved for F1.

"Each (park) event is considered based on benefit to users and its impact on the natural and historic resources on the site," a spokesman is quoted as saying by nj.com.