Lewis Hamilton Declares COTA 'Best Track in the States' Amidst F1's US Boom

Seven-time Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton has hailed the Circuit of The Americas (COTA) as 'the best track in the States' and 'one of my favorite tracks on the whole calendar,' as F1's popularity in the United States continues its rapid ascent. Since COTA joined the calendar in 2012, Hamilton has witnessed firsthand the championship's dramatic growth, driven by key cultural phenomena like Netflix's Drive to Survive and the recently released F1 movie.

Why it matters:

• F1's explosion in popularity in the US marks a significant shift for a sport traditionally dominated by European audiences. This growth is crucial for global expansion and commercial success.
• Hamilton's endorsement of COTA highlights the circuit's quality and the positive reception from drivers, reinforcing its status as a premier venue.
• The integration of F1 into American sports culture, particularly through media like Drive to Survive and the F1 movie (on which Hamilton served as executive producer), has introduced the sport to a new, younger demographic.

The Details:

• Hamilton, one of the few current drivers to have raced at COTA since its inception in 2012, expressed his awe at the 'growth and the interest from people here in the States.'
• He praised COTA's ability to 'tap into the sporting community' in Austin, noting the city's passion for college football and other sports.
• Media Impact: Netflix's Drive to Survive is credited as a major catalyst for increased F1 viewership in the US and for attracting a younger audience.
• Hollywood Influence: The F1 movie, released in June 2025, further propelled the sport's visibility. Hamilton was an executive producer on the film, starring Brad Pitt and Damson Idris.
• Hamilton recalled the initial skepticism towards F1 in the US: 'the first time we came here, it was all kind of 'Formula 1? What is Formula 1?'' He contrasted this with the current 'huge turnout every time we come here.'
• He described the US Grand Prix weekend as 'one of my favorite weekends of the year,' citing the 'great food' and 'really great atmosphere' in Austin.
• Hamilton also noted ongoing improvements at the circuit, including the addition of a theme park, despite some remaining 'bumpy' sections due to underground movement.

Looking Ahead:

F1's continued success in the US, fueled by driver endorsements, compelling media content, and well-organized events like the US Grand Prix at COTA, points to a bright future for the sport in North America. The ability to engage diverse audiences and integrate F1 into the broader American entertainment landscape suggests sustained growth and potential for even greater events.

• The ongoing enhancements to circuits like COTA, combined with a dedicated fanbase, promise an increasingly premium experience for attendees.
• As new generations discover F1 through modern media, the sport is well-positioned to cement its place as a major sporting attraction across the United States.