COTA Secures Long-Term Future for US Grand Prix Until 2034

The Circuit of the Americas (COTA) in Austin, Texas, has officially extended its contract with Formula 1 to host the United States Grand Prix through 2034. This new agreement solidifies COTA's place on the F1 calendar for another decade, following its debut in 2012 and establishing itself as a fan favorite.

Why it matters:

After years of fluctuating interest, the United States has become a crucial growth market for Formula 1. Securing COTA's long-term future is a testament to the circuit's success and popularity, ensuring F1 maintains a strong presence in a key region. This stability allows for continued investment and development, benefiting both the sport and the local economy.

The Details:

• Contract Extension: COTA's previous deal was set to expire in 2026, but the new agreement extends its hosting rights until 2034, adding eight years to its tenure.
• Historical Significance: COTA first hosted the US Grand Prix in 2012 and has been a staple on the F1 calendar every year since, with the sole exception of 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Other major motorsport series, including MotoGP, WEC, and NASCAR, also utilize the circuit.
• Three US Races: This extension ensures that the United States will continue to host three Formula 1 weekends annually. The Miami Grand Prix is secured until 2041, and the Las Vegas Grand Prix, despite an earlier unannounced deal, is on the calendar until at least 2027.
• F1's Growth in the US: Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, emphasized COTA's pivotal role in the sport's significant growth in popularity and strength within the United States since 2012.
  • Domenicali highlighted the event as a "true highlight for fans, drivers, and teams alike," drawing hundreds of thousands of passionate supporters.
• Economic Impact: Bobby Epstein, Chairman of Circuit of The Americas, underscored the substantial economic impact of the US Grand Prix, noting its status as one of the world's biggest single-weekend sporting events.
  • With this extension, COTA is set to surpass Watkins Glen as the longest-serving Formula 1 track in the United States, marking a significant milestone in American motorsport history.

The big picture:

Formula 1's strategic expansion in the US, spearheaded by Liberty Media, has transformed the American market from a niche interest into a powerhouse. The sustained commitment to multiple US venues, including COTA, Miami, and Las Vegas, reflects a deliberate effort to maximize exposure and fan engagement across different regions. This multi-pronged approach diversifies F1's appeal, tapping into different demographics and ensuring a robust, long-term presence in a crucial global market.

What's next:

The continued success of the US Grand Prix at COTA, alongside Miami and Las Vegas, will further solidify Formula 1's position in North America. The long-term security provided by this contract extension allows COTA to continue investing in infrastructure and fan experience, promising an even more spectacular event for years to come. This stability also provides a strong foundation for future growth and potential expansion into other regions, reinforcing F1's global footprint.