2012 Formula 1 United States Grand Prix
Circuit of the Americas (COTA) is the first purpose-built F1 racetrack in the United States and site of the 2012 Formula 1 United States Grand Prix. The circuit, currently under construction, is located near Austin, the capital city of Texas. The circuit is only 5 minutes away from Austin Bergstrom International Airport. The track is expected to be ready for the FIA homologation in summer 2012. Austin is set to host Formula 1 racing from 2012 through 2021 and MotoGP from 2013 to 2022. The 2012 United States Grand Prix will be held on the weekend of 16-18 November.
The track is designed by well known German architect and circuit designer Hermann Tilke. The circuit length is 5.5 kilometers and the driving direction is counterclockwise. A total of 20 corners with 9 right turns and 11 left turns. The track width is 11.9 -15.9 meters and the estimated top speed is 320 km/h. The elevation change of 40.5 meters makes the course not only scenic, but also extremely challenging and very exciting for the spectators.
The grandstands, temporary stands and natural seating areas created by integrating natural grass berms and picnic areas for families will enable over 120,000 to attend the Grand Prix race. The $ 250 million multifunctional facility is being designed with year-round functionality and attractions. Proposed attractions within the racetrack development include driving/riding experience and seminar building, motorsports driving club and a kart track. The paddock building will also serve as a 500-person banquet hall for private or corporate events or galas.