championship's

But the men's delayed final restored the championship's integrity in the most emphatic manner.

Novak Djokovic battles past Rafael Nadal to first US Open title 2011

And while the '79 final helped the tournament thrive, there were other factors down through the years that were just as important, if not moreso, to the championship's growth, Duke believes.

Selection committee chair looks back on 1979 title game 2009

If the proposed series comes to fruition, Mosley said he has informed FOTA that the FIA would still be the rival championship's ultimate regulator because of a deal struck between it and the European Commission.

Mosley: F1, teams close to reaching compromise 2009

Indeed, the FIA president, Jean Todt, who was boss at Peugeot in the championship's last incarnation, has said "endurance racing could be an area we are interested in" regarding World Championship status.

Le Mans and the enduring appeal of endurance racing 2011

The championship's new hybrid format was confusing, but it led to fighting chess.

Lubomir Kavalek: Chess Champ Kamsky Wins in Overtime Lubomir Kavalek 2010

Andre Penner/Reuters SOCCER MANIA: Corinthians fans celebrated after their team won the Sao Paulo state championship's final soccer game against Santos in Sao Paulo, Brazil, on Sunday.

Today's Photos: May 4 2009

Open trophy that will be handed out this week to the 2008 championship's winner/survivor.

Things May Get Rough 2008

And the players were on the verge of meeting their announced -- and widely dismissed -- goal: propelling the United States into the soccer championship's second round, a level it hadn't reached since the Cup's debut back in 1930.

You Gotta Believe 2008

Kildow, who became one of this championship's favorites after six top-three finishes so far this season on the World Cup tour, sobbed in the finish area when Goetschl knocked her to another fourth-place finish.

USATODAY.com - Kostelic wins downhill gold at worlds 2005

Open, the longest track in the championship's history.

USATODAY.com - Black Course regulars can feel the pros' pain 2002