F1 Extends United States Grand Prix Contract in Austin Through 2034

Formula 1 has secured an eight-year contract extension with the promoters of the United States Grand Prix, ensuring the race at Austin's Circuit of the Americas (COTA) will remain on the F1 calendar until at least 2034. This significant deal solidifies F1's presence in a key market and underscores the growing popularity of the sport in the U.S.

Why it matters:

• The extension of the United States Grand Prix at COTA is a testament to the surging popularity of Formula 1 in North America. With three races now in the U.S. (Austin, Miami, Las Vegas), securing Austin's long-term future is crucial for maintaining stability and a cornerstone event in the region.
• COTA has become a fan favorite, known for its challenging layout and vibrant atmosphere, drawing hundreds of thousands of spectators annually.
• This long-term commitment provides financial stability for both F1 and COTA, allowing for continued investment in infrastructure and fan experience.

The Details:

• The existing contract for the Circuit of the Americas was set to expire next season.
• Prior to the extension, the Circuit Events Local Organising Committee had to vote on funding from the Texas Major Events Reimbursement Program, as reported by Chron, paving the way for the deal.
• The new agreement was officially announced on Sunday, ahead of the United States Grand Prix, by Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali and Bobby Epstein, Chairman of Circuit of The Americas.
• Domenicali's remarks: Emphasized the growth and popularity of the U.S. Grand Prix since 2012, thanking Austin and Travis County for their hospitality. He highlighted the event as a "true highlight for fans, drivers, and teams alike" and praised Bobby Epstein's team and Governor Abbott for their "unwavering commitment to F1."
• Epstein's remarks: Expressed gratitude to fans, teams, and the F1 community for making the U.S. Grand Prix a "favorite stop on the global calendar." He noted that COTA will surpass Watkins Glen as the longest-serving F1 track in the United States and highlighted the event's "unrivalled annual economic impact."
• Historical Context: COTA hosted its first F1 race in 2012, with Lewis Hamilton taking the inaugural win. Hamilton remains the most successful driver at COTA with five victories, followed by Max Verstappen, who has claimed three consecutive wins from 2021 to 2023.
• U.S. F1 Presence: Austin is one of three F1 races in America for the 2025 season, alongside the Miami Grand Prix (added in 2022) and the Las Vegas Grand Prix (added in 2023).

What's next:

With the contract secured until 2034, COTA can focus on further enhancing the fan experience and venue infrastructure. The stability provided by this long-term deal will allow both Formula 1 and the Circuit of the Americas to plan for future growth and continue to establish the U.S. Grand Prix as a premier global sporting event. The immediate focus remains on the current race weekend, where Max Verstappen, starting from pole, is favored to add another victory at COTA following his Sprint win.