Circuit of the Americas

The Circuit of the Americas (COTA) is one of the most exciting and challenging tracks on the Formula 1 calendar. Since its debut in 2012, the race has been a fixture in the United States, located in Austin, Texas. The 5.47-kilometer circuit features 20 corners, offering a perfect mix of high-speed straights and technical turns that challenge even the best drivers.

The U.S. Grand Prix often serves as one of the final races of the season, adding extra drama as Formula 1’s world championship battle intensifies. In recent years, the United States Grand Prix has been a key moment in the title race, with Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton battling it out for supremacy.

Designed by Hermann Tilke, the Circuit of the Americas features a variety of corners that create plenty of opportunities for overtaking. The layout is known for its flow, with Corners 3 to 6 taking heavy inspiration from the famous Silverstone Circuit. These corners are particularly iconic for their elevation changes, as drivers navigate a sequence of undulating turns that require both skill and precision.

The circuit also features two long straights, with several high-speed corners between them, giving teams the chance to adjust their setups for both low- and high-speed handling. With a combination of sharp corners and sweeping turns, COTA requires drivers to be at their best across the entire lap. This makes it a favorite among both fans and drivers for its challenge and variety.

The United States Grand Prix at COTA has seen plenty of memorable moments since its debut. Take the inaugural race at COTA in 2012, for example. Hamilton won a sensational race from second after a battle with pole sitter Sebastian Vettel. In 2015, the race in Austin played a pivotal role in the championship outcome, as Hamilton claimed victory and extended his lead over Rosberg. In 2018, Kimi Räikkönen took the win in a dramatic race, securing a rare victory for Ferrari. This victory was notable as it marked Ferrari's first win in the United States since 2006, and it would also be the Fin’s last race win in F1. Finland’s success in the USA carried over to 2019, as Valtteri Bottas became the latest winner, taking a dominant victory after a thrilling battle. The result was a key moment in the championship race, adding to the excitement. Once more, this track played its part in the championship of 2021, in a race where Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton were involved in an intense battle for the world championship. Verstappen’s victory on American soil was a pivotal moment in the title race, as Red Bull Racing executed a perfect strategy, outmaneuvering Hamilton and Mercedes.

This special track is also dear to Lewis Hamilton, who is the best performing driver ever at the Circuit of the Americas. With 9 podiums including 5 wins he has created a remarkable record in the USA. The first race at the venue in 2012, saw Hamilton beat Vettel after an exciting weekend. The German had secured pole by a tiny margin on Saturday, but was no match for the pace of the Brit on Sunday. 2015 was another memorable win for the seven-time world champion, as he pitted under a Safety Car whilst teammate Nico Rosberg seemed to be on for a race win. The German had already pitted, and though he was ahead at the restart, Hamilton passed him on the fresh rubber. In the cooldown room, Rosberg famously threw his P2 cap at Hamilton after the race.

The Circuit of the Americas stands out for several reasons. First of all, the mixture of high-speed straights, technical turns, and elevation changes provides a variety of challenges for the drivers, with the undulating corners making this place into a fan favourite track. Secondly, the United States Grand Prix is known for its electric atmosphere, with a massive crowd of enthusiastic fans filling the grandstands. Austin itself also offers a vibrant backdrop, adding to the overall excitement. Lastly, as one of the final races of the season, the United States Grand Prix is often a pivotal moment in the World Championship. Drivers and teams need to perform at their best, making for thrilling, high-stakes racing.