Browse… and highlight the project you want to open
At this point, with the file highlighted, PLEASE… I would love Cubase to display the sample rate of that particular project prior to me clicking “open”. This way, I can set my converters correctly, and then click open to open the project.
I think this will get you there. Don’t use File/Open… Instead use Media Bay.
In Media Bay navigate to and select the .cpr file. In the Attribute Inspector under Audio - Properties it will show you the Project’s sample rate. Double clicking in Media Bay will then open the Project.