Formula 1: Montoya keen to race in United States

Juan Pablo Montoya has promised to put the smile back on the faces of Americans traumatized by the recent terrorist atrocities in Sunday's United States Grand Prix.

The Colombian has backed the decision to let the Indianapolis race go ahead, believing it will bring a respite to a nation still mourning the dead from this month's attacks.

"I thought it was very sad what happened, but the way I look at it, you can't really stop life," said Montoya.

"I think coming here to the race you're actually going to take people's mind off it and help them forget about everything that's happened and give them something to cheer about for a couple of days.

"It was a decision made by the organizers. As a driver, I didn't see a problem coming here.

"We're here and it should go ahead, and I'm very pleased. I think it's going to be a great show, and hopefully we can get a good result out of it."

The decision to race has split Formula One but all the drivers will take to the start line for first practice for a race which only joined the calendar last year.

Organisers have promised tighter security measures for teams and spectators this weekend, although with tickets still on sale, last year's record crowd of well over 200,000 may not be repeated.

"Public safety is our first priority, and I am grateful to the law enforcement and emergency response community for their cooperation in reviewing and strengthening the plans for the Grand Prix," said Indy boss Tony George.

"A number of additional measures will be taken, some our fans will see, some they won't, but all of them are being taken to assure we are doing what needs to be done for the security of all."