{{Short description|Motor race track near Austin, Texas, U.S.}} {{Use American English|date=August 2025}} {{Use mdy dates|date=November 2024}} {{Infobox motorsport venue <!-- Completions are listed from the most important to least important --> <!-- Former, Minor and Cancelled Events are in separate sections, refer to that. The infobox was becoming confusing and was overflowing. --> | name = Circuit of the Americas | nicknames = COTA | location = Austin, Texas, United States | coordinates = {{coord|30|7|58|N|97|38|28|W|region:US-TX_type:landmark_scale:10000|display=inline,title}} | logo = 250px|center|Circuit of the Americas | image = class=skin-invert|250px|center | image_caption = Grand Prix Circuit (2012–present) | track_map = class=skin-invert|250px|center | track_map_caption = NASCAR Circuit (2025–present) | capacity = 120,000<ref>{{Cite web |title=Formula 1 Pirelli United States Grand Prix 2024 – Media Kit |url=https://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/media_kit_2024_v5_final_0.pdf |access-date=17 October 2024 |publisher=Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile |archive-date=December 3, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241203022728/https://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/media_kit_2024_v5_final_0.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref> | fia_grade = 1 | owner = Circuit of the Americas LLC (2012–present) | broke_ground = {{Start date and age|2010|12|31}} | opened = {{Start date and age|2012|10|21}} | architect = Tavo Hellmund, Kevin Schwantz, and Hermann Tilke | events = {{Plain list|'''Current:'''<br/> * '''Formula One''' * ''United States Grand Prix'' (2012–2019, 2021–present) * '''Grand Prix motorcycle racing''' * ''United States motorcycle Grand Prix'' (2026) * ''Motorcycle Grand Prix of the Americas''<br>(2013–2019, 2021–2025) * '''FIA World Endurance Championship''' * ''Lone Star Le Mans''<br>(2013–2017, 2020, 2024–present) * '''NASCAR Cup Series''' * ''DuraMAX Texas Grand Prix''<br>(2021–present) * '''NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series''' * ''Focused Health 250''<br>(2021–present) * '''GT World Challenge America''' * ''GT World Challenge America at COTA''<br>(2013, 2015–2021, 2023–present) * '''Trans-Am Series''' * ''Austin Speedtour''<br>(2015–present) * '''MotoAmerica''' * ''Superbikes at Texas''<br>(2015–2019, 2022–present) }} | miles_first = True | layout = Grand Prix Circuit (2012–present) | length_km = 5.513 | length_mi = 3.426 | turns = 20 | record_time = 1:36.169 | record_driver = {{flagicon|MCO}} Charles Leclerc | record_car = Ferrari SF90 | record_year = 2019 | record_class = F1 | layout2 = NASCAR Circuit (2025–present) | length2_km = 3.862 | length2_mi = 2.400 | turns2 = 17 | record_time2 = 1:29.216 | record_driver2 = {{flagicon|USA}} Wyatt Brichacek | record_car2 = Ligier JS P325 | record_year2 = 2026 | record_class2 = LMP3 | layout3 = National Circuit (2012–present) | length3_km = 3.702 | length3_mi = 2.300 | turns3 = 19 | record_time3 = 1:33.284 | record_driver3 = {{flagicon|USA}} Johnny O'Connell | record_car3 = Cadillac CTS-V | record_year3 = 2013 | record_class3 = PWC GT }}
The '''Circuit of the Americas''' ('''COTA''') is a Grade 1<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/tableaulicencescircuit.pdf|title=List of FIA Licensed Circuits|date=February 6, 2015|publisher=FIA|location=Paris|access-date=May 28, 2015|archive-date=May 28, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150528073106/http://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/tableaulicencescircuit.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref> FIA-specification {{convert|3.426|mi|km|adj=on|sp=us}} motor racing track and facilities located in Austin, Texas, United States. The facility is home to the Formula One United States Grand Prix, NASCAR, and the Motorcycle Grand Prix of the Americas,<ref name="MotoGP in">{{cite news|title=MotoGP to race in Texas in 2013 at the Circuit of The Americas|url=http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2012/COTA+race+date+anouncement+for+2013|date=October 3, 2012|access-date=October 3, 2012|work=MotoGP.com|publisher=Dorna Sports|archive-date=October 14, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141014050320/http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2012/COTA+race+date+anouncement+for+2013|url-status=dead}}</ref> a round in MotoGP and the FIA World Endurance Championship with the Lone Star Le Mans.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://auto-racing.speedtv.com/article/le-mans-2013-wec-schedule-released/ | title = LE MANS: 2013 WEC Schedule Release | publisher = Speed Channel | work = SpeedTV.com | last = Dagys | first = John | date = September 28, 2012 | access-date = September 28, 2013 | url-status = dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20130603173149/http://auto-racing.speedtv.com/article/le-mans-2013-wec-schedule-released | archive-date = June 3, 2013 | df = mdy-all }}</ref> It previously hosted the Australian V8 Supercars,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/30/v8-supercar-series-coming-to-austin-in-2013/ |title=V8 Supercar Series coming to Austin in 2013 |publisher=Autoblog.com |access-date=June 23, 2015 |archive-date=September 24, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924024530/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/30/v8-supercar-series-coming-to-austin-in-2013/ |url-status=live }}</ref> the Americas Rallycross Championship, the American Le Mans Series,<ref>{{cite news|url=http://auto-racing.speedtv.com/article/alms-series-to-race-at-cota-in-2013/|work=speedtv.com|publisher=SPEED|date=June 1, 2012|access-date=June 1, 2012|title=ALMS: Series to Race at COTA in 2013|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120605153917/http://auto-racing.speedtv.com/article/alms-series-to-race-at-cota-in-2013/|archive-date=June 5, 2012}}</ref> the Rolex Sports Car Series,<ref>{{cite web | url = http://auto-racing.speedtv.com/article/grand-am-12-race-2013-rolex-series-calendar-revealed/ | title = GRAND-AM: 12-Race 2013 Rolex Series Calendar Revealed | publisher = Speed Channel | work = SpeedTV.com | date = September 28, 2012 | access-date = September 28, 2012 | url-status = dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120930032335/http://auto-racing.speedtv.com/article/grand-am-12-race-2013-rolex-series-calendar-revealed/ | archive-date = September 30, 2012 | df = mdy-all }}</ref> the IMSA SportsCar Championship and the IndyCar Classic.
The circuit and Grand Prix were first proposed in the middle of 2010. The circuit was the first in the United States to be purpose-built for Formula One. The layout was conceived by promoter Tavo Hellmund and 1993 Motorcycle World Champion Kevin Schwantz<ref name="Tavo & Kevin">{{cite news|title=Turn for turn, Austin track's design, layout should look familiar to F1 drivers|url=http://www.statesman.com/sports/formula1/turn-for-turn-austin-tracks-design-layout-should-2321735.html?viewAsSinglePage=true|first=John|last=Maher|work=Austin-American Statesman|date=April 23, 2012|access-date=April 23, 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120426215922/http://www.statesman.com/sports/formula1/turn-for-turn-austin-tracks-design-layout-should-2321735.html?viewAsSinglePage=true|archive-date=April 26, 2012}}</ref> with the assistance of German architect and circuit designer Hermann Tilke, who has also designed the Sepang, Shanghai, Yas Marina, Istanbul, Bahrain, Yeongam, and Buddh circuits, as well as the reprofiling of the Hockenheimring and Fuji Speedway.
==History==
===Construction=== thumb|left|The {{convert|251|ft|m|adj=on}} observation tower under construction at the Circuit of the Americas thumb|left|Hairpin Turn 11 before completion In a news conference on July 27, 2010, Tavo Hellmund announced plans to build the track on about {{convert|890|acre|km2}} of undeveloped land in southeastern Travis County. The majority of the site had been planned to be developed into a residential subdivision called "Wandering Creek".<ref>{{cite news|title=Future F1 site revealed |url=http://www.statesman.com/business/future-f1-site-revealed-825045.html |first=Shonda |last=Novak |work=Austin American-Statesman |date=July 27, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110619013236/http://www.statesman.com/business/future-f1-site-revealed-825045.html |archive-date=June 19, 2011 |access-date=July 27, 2010 |url-status=dead }}</ref> In the same news conference, Hellmund also revealed that Texas billionaire Red McCombs was the project's largest investor. The circuit homologation design was submitted to the FIA in Geneva for approval on December 17, 2010. HKS, Inc. and Tilke Engineers & Architects designed the track, and Austin Commercial, a subsidiary of Austin Industries, was the general contractor. The Grand Plaza, Observation Structure, Tower Amphitheater, and Main Grandstand were designed by Austin-based architectural firm Miró Rivera Architects.
Construction began on December 31, 2010,<ref>{{cite news|title=Construction begins at new US GP venue|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/88785|first=Jonathan|last=Noble|work=Autosport.com|publisher=Haymarket Publications|date=December 31, 2010|access-date=January 1, 2011|archive-date=August 8, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170808131334/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/88785|url-status=live}}</ref> and was due to be complete by June 2012.<ref>{{cite news|title=Formula 1 groundbreaking date released|url=http://www.kxan.com/dpp/sports/formula-1-groundbreaking-date-released|first=Josh|last=Hinkle|work=KXAN|date=July 19, 2010|access-date=August 14, 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110927010304/http://www.kxan.com/dpp/sports/formula-1-groundbreaking-date-released|archive-date=September 27, 2011}}</ref> Following a stop-work order in December 2011, the completion date was revised to August.<ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/97091 | title=Austin F1 track set for August completion | work=Autosport | date=January 19, 2012 | access-date=November 22, 2013 | archive-date=April 19, 2012 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120419102631/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/97091 | url-status=live }}</ref> The first tasks were building the silt fences, taking core samples, and shredding existing vegetation.<ref>{{cite web|title=Work starts on Austin track |url=http://supersport.com/motorsport/formula1/news/101231/Work_starts_on_Austin_track |work=SuperSport.com |access-date=January 30, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208045910/http://www.supersport.com/motorsport/formula1/news/101231/Work_starts_on_Austin_track |archive-date=December 8, 2015 |date=December 31, 2010 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
On January 21, 2011, a $900,000 check was posted with Travis County that permitted grading to begin. The money was to be used to restore the land if the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) declined to allow the project to move forward because part of the site lies in a floodplain.<ref>{{cite news|last=Dexheimer |first=Eric |title=F1 to start moving dirt soon |url=http://www.statesman.com/blogs/content/shared-gen/blogs/austin/racing/entries/2011/01/24/f1_can_soon_start_moving_dirt.html?cxntfid=blogs_formula_austin |access-date=January 30, 2011 |newspaper=Austin American-Statesman |date=January 24, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012145148/http://www.statesman.com/blogs/content/shared-gen/blogs/austin/racing/entries/2011/01/24/f1_can_soon_start_moving_dirt.html/?cxntfid=blogs_formula_austin |archive-date=October 12, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> FEMA issued a letter on June 28, 2011, stating the project meets its floodplain management criteria.
In January 2012, Travis County announced that Elroy Road—one of the two primary public access roads to the circuit—would receive an upgrade to handle the increased volume of incoming traffic, but not before the running of the 2012 race.<ref>{{cite news|title=Elroy Road to be widened, but not before first F1 race|url=http://www.statesman.com/sports/formula1/elroy-road-to-be-widened-but-not-before-2091924.html|first=Ben|last=Wear|work=Austin-American Statesman|date=January 9, 2012|access-date=January 11, 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120113114437/http://www.statesman.com/sports/formula1/elroy-road-to-be-widened-but-not-before-2091924.html|archive-date=January 13, 2012}}</ref> At the time of the announcement, the unstable clay soils under the road surface had caused Elroy Road to gradually buckle and shift, necessitating the upgrade.
On June 13, 2012, Charlie Whiting—the FIA-appointed Race Director for Formula 1—declared himself satisfied with the circuit's construction, scheduling a final pre-race inspection of the circuit for September 25, sixty days before the first race,<ref>{{cite news|title=Charlie Whiting happy with Circuit de the Americas' progress|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/100332|work=Autosport.com|publisher=Haymarket Publications|date=June 13, 2012|access-date=June 13, 2012|archive-date=June 16, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120616014643/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/100332|url-status=live}}</ref> which the circuit later passed.<ref>{{cite web|last=Cooper|first=Adam|title=Whiting Says COTA Ready For Formula One|url=http://formula-one.speedtv.com/article/f1-charlie-whiting-says-cota-ready-for-formula-one|work=SPEED Channel|publisher=Fox Sports|date=September 26, 2012|access-date=September 26, 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120927054757/http://formula-one.speedtv.com/article/f1-charlie-whiting-says-cota-ready-for-formula-one|archive-date=September 27, 2012}}</ref> To ensure the demanding FIA specifications for the track were met, GPS-based 3D paving equipment was used on the asphalt paving and milling machines.<ref>{{cite news|title=Young Leaders See Future in Austin|work=Asphalt Pavement|last=Ross|first=T. Carter|date=March–April 2013|url=https://www.nxtbook.com/naylor/NAPS/NAPS0213/index.php?startid=49#/48|type=digital magazine|access-date=January 16, 2019|volume=18|issue=2|pages=49–53|archive-date=January 17, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190117013445/https://www.nxtbook.com/naylor/NAPS/NAPS0213/index.php?startid=49#/48|url-status=dead}}</ref> The first layer of asphalt was completed on August 3, 2012.<ref>{{cite news|title=First lap of tarmac laid at COTA|url=http://www.gpupdate.net/en/f1-news/282410/first-lap-of-tarmac-laid-at-cota/|work=GP Update|date=August 3, 2012|access-date=August 15, 2012|archive-date=October 5, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121005024431/http://www.gpupdate.net/en/f1-news/282410/first-lap-of-tarmac-laid-at-cota/|url-status=live}}</ref> Construction began laying the final layer of asphalt on August 14,<ref>{{cite news|title=COTA begins final paving process|url=http://www.gpupdate.net/en/f1-news/282576/cota-begins-final-paving-process/|work=GP Update|date=August 14, 2012|access-date=August 15, 2012|archive-date=October 15, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121015065027/http://www.gpupdate.net/en/f1-news/282576/cota-begins-final-paving-process/|url-status=live}}</ref> and was finished on September 21.<ref>{{cite news|title=COTA Completes Track Pavement With Success |url=http://circuitoftheamericas.com/articles/cota-completes-track-pavement-with-success |work=CircuitOfTheAmericas.com |publisher=Circuit of the Americas |date=September 21, 2012 |access-date=September 22, 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121106035137/http://circuitoftheamericas.com/articles/cota-completes-track-pavement-with-success |archive-date=November 6, 2012 }}</ref> The track was officially opened on October 21, with Mario Andretti running the ceremonial first laps in a Lotus 79, the car he drove when he became the last American to win the World Drivers' Championship in 1978.<ref>{{cite web|title=Circuit of the Americas. The first lap.|url=http://circuitoftheamericas.com/articles/circuit-of-the-americas-christens-new-track-with-first-lap-ceremony|publisher=Circuit of the Americas|access-date=October 23, 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140517151241/http://circuitoftheamericas.com/articles/circuit-of-the-americas-christens-new-track-with-first-lap-ceremony|archive-date=May 17, 2014}}</ref>
===Name=== McCombs wished to call the site "Speed City",<ref>{{cite news|title=Red McCombs named investor in Austin Formula One project |url=http://www.statesman.com/blogs/content/shared-gen/blogs/austin/investigative/entries/2010/07/27/red_mccombs_named_investor_in.html |first=John |last=Maher |work=Austin American-Statesman |date=July 27, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100930195652/http://www.statesman.com/blogs/content/shared-gen/blogs/austin/investigative/entries/2010/07/27/red_mccombs_named_investor_in.html |archive-date=September 30, 2010 |access-date=July 27, 2010 |url-status=dead }}</ref> but the owners originally anticipated selling the naming rights to various parts of the facility for $7 million.<ref>{{cite news|last=Dexheimer |first=Eric |title=How much would Austin F1 track be worth in naming rights? |url=http://www.statesman.com/blogs/content/shared-gen/blogs/austin/racing/entries/2010/08/23/how_much_would_austin_f1_track.html?cxntfid=blogs_formula_austin |access-date=January 30, 2011 |newspaper=Austin American-Statesman |date=August 23, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012145122/http://www.statesman.com/blogs/content/shared-gen/blogs/austin/racing/entries/2010/08/23/how_much_would_austin_f1_track.html/?cxntfid=blogs_formula_austin |archive-date=October 12, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> On April 12, 2011, the track's name was announced as "Circuit of the Americas" at a press conference.<ref name="COTA"/> Red McCombs, later said: "One of the most inviting aspects of the name is the word 'Americas'. It reflects Austin's ideal location at the crossroads of North America from north to south, east to west. Also, it speaks to our state as a centre of commerce and cultural exchange in this hemisphere. I look forward to meeting many fans and visitors who will be coming from every country."<ref>{{cite web |title=Work starts on Austin track |url=https://www.racefans.net/2011/04/12/austin-f1-track-named-circuit-americas/#:~:text=Red%20McCombs%2C%20one%20of%20the,to%20south%2C%20east%20to%20west. |work=RaceFans.net |access-date=October 23, 2022 |date=April 12, 2011 |archive-date=October 21, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231021031615/https://www.racefans.net/2011/04/12/austin-f1-track-named-circuit-americas/#:~:text=Red%20McCombs%2C%20one%20of%20the,to%20south%2C%20east%20to%20west. |url-status=live }}</ref> In December 2020 Red McCombs got a corner named after him called 'Big Red'.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://circuitoftheamericas.com/blog/2020/12/18/big-red/ |title=Circuit of the Americas Renames Iconic Turn One to Celebrate One of Its First Investors, Red McCombs |access-date=October 23, 2022 |archive-date=June 10, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230610041948/https://circuitoftheamericas.com/blog/2020/12/18/big-red/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
===City endorsement and lawsuit=== In order for the race to take place, the Austin city council was asked to be the sponsoring municipality for the event. Through being a sponsor, the city could apply for money from a state fund, the Major Events Trust Fund (METF), designed to attract major sporting events to Texas that would be used to pay the Formula One race sanctioning fee.<ref>{{cite news|title=Austin council delays vote on whether to endorse F1|url=http://www.statesman.com/news/local/austin-council-delays-vote-on-whether-to-endorse-1559215.html|first=Marty|last=Toohey|work=Statesman.com|publisher=American Statesman|date=June 23, 2011|access-date=June 25, 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110628000227/http://www.statesman.com/news/local/austin-council-delays-vote-on-whether-to-endorse-1559215.html|archive-date=June 28, 2011}}</ref> This matter was complicated by opponents of the project who filed a lawsuit against state comptroller Susan Combs, claiming that she had promised the funding to the circuit without having been legally authorized to do so,<ref>{{cite news|title=A lawsuit in America... how predictable|url=http://joesaward.wordpress.com/2011/06/23/a-lawsuit-in-america-how-predictable/|first=Joe|last=Saward|work=Joe Saward blogs about the world of F1|publisher=Joe Saward|date=June 23, 2011|access-date=June 23, 2011|archive-date=June 26, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110626130925/http://joesaward.wordpress.com/2011/06/23/a-lawsuit-in-america-how-predictable/|url-status=live}}</ref> though promoters have responded stating that all necessary guidelines had been followed.
In June 2011, the Austin city council agreed to allow the circuit to apply to the Texas Major Events Trust Fund but withheld its full endorsement requiring the circuit to pay the financial match normally borne by the local government sponsor. As a part of the endorsement, the sport will pay $15,000 in carbon offsets and $5 million to establish an on-site research project into environmentally friendly technologies.
On July 1, 2011, a state district court judge declined to enter a temporary restraining order against Combs preventing payments from the METF; nonetheless, Texas Comptroller Combs reconsidered and chose not to make the July 31 advance payment to FOMC/Bernard Ecclestone as previously agreed for the first year's sanctioning fee. The lawsuit was dropped after the race was delayed a year.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2011-11-24 |title=F1 Texas organizers agree to pay fee for race |url=https://www.espn.com/racing/f1/story/_/id/7276661/formula-one-texas-organizers-agree-pay-sanctioning-fee-secure-race |access-date=2025-09-09 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}}</ref>
===Breach of contract and reinstatement=== {{main|United States Grand Prix}} In November 2011, Bernie Ecclestone expressed what he called "minor" doubt over the future of the United States Grand Prix in Austin after "disagreements inside the [management] company".<ref name="Bernie doubts">{{cite news|title=Formula 1 chiefs to discuss 2012 calendar amid concerns over some races|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/95834|first=Jonathan|last=Noble|work=Autosport|publisher=Haymarket Publications|date=November 1, 2011|access-date=November 1, 2011|archive-date=November 2, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111102144156/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/95834|url-status=live}}</ref> These issues were later confirmed when construction of the circuit came to a halt because of a dispute between the circuit owners, promoter Full Throttle Productions, and Formula One Management.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/2011/11/15/circuit-americas-halts-construction-contract-dispute/ |title=Circuit of the Americas halts construction in contract dispute |publisher=F1 Fanatic |date=November 15, 2011 |access-date=August 16, 2012 |archive-date=July 3, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170703144906/http://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/2011/11/15/circuit-americas-halts-construction-contract-dispute/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
Promoter Tavo Hellmund admitted that his company had been in breach of its contract with Formula One Management since May 2011. The situation further escalated when state comptroller Susan Combs described the planned Grand Prix of America as a threat to the race in Texas, and said that the first $25 million payment from the state sports fund would only be made available after the first Grand Prix at the circuit, despite having previously promised to make the funds available in time for the inaugural event.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.jamesallenonf1.com/2011/11/texas-finance-chief-confirms-new-jersey-race-threatens-austin-event/ |title=Texas finance chief confirms New Jersey race threatens Austin event James Allen on F1 – The official James Allen website on F1 |publisher=Jamesallenonf1.com |access-date=August 16, 2012 |archive-date=October 23, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181023120427/https://www.jamesallenonf1.com/2011/11/texas-finance-chief-confirms-new-jersey-race-threatens-austin-event/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> Bernie Ecclestone later issued an ultimatum to the owners and organizers: find a solution before the December 7 meeting of the FIA World Motor Sport Council or else risk being removed from the 2012 calendar. Ecclestone emphasized that if the Circuit of the Americas were removed from the calendar, it would not be added again at a later date.
On December 7, 2011, the World Motor Sport Council released the final calendar for the 2012 season, with the Circuit of the Americas retaining its November 18 date. Further details revealed that the race investors, McCombs and Epstein, had reached a new arrangement with Ecclestone, with work on the circuit scheduled to resume immediately.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.theaustingrandprix.com/news/tag/bobby-epstein#.T0KyJvVEWg4 |title=News |publisher=The Austin Grand Prix |access-date=August 16, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120208220945/http://www.theaustingrandprix.com/news/tag/bobby-epstein#.T0KyJvVEWg4 |archive-date=February 8, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> As a part of the arrangement, organizers paid the sanctioning fee for the 2012 race one year in advance as a show of good faith.<ref>[https://www.usatoday.com/sports/motor/formula1/story/2011-12-07/grand-prix-in-texas-approved-by-formula-one/51722488/1 "Formula One to return to U.S. at U.S. Grand Prix in Texas" ''USA Today''.] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160309021951/http://www.usatoday.com/sports/motor/formula1/story/2011-12-07/grand-prix-in-texas-approved-by-formula-one/51722488/1 |date=March 9, 2016 }} Retrieved December 10, 2011.</ref> At the time of the circuit's reinstatement, there were no reports supporting Tavo Hellmund's continued involvement under the new contract.
On March 4, 2012, ''The Austin American-Statesman'' reported that Hellmund had launched legal proceedings against investors Bobby Epstein and Red McCombs, with Hellmund claiming that he was still a part of the management company and had not been paid since September.<ref>{{cite news|title=F1 promoter sues other race investors|url=http://www.statesman.com/sports/formula1/f1-promoter-sues-other-race-investors-2215199.html|first=John|last=Maher|work=The Austin Statesman|date=March 3, 2012|access-date=March 6, 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120307015759/http://www.statesman.com/sports/formula1/f1-promoter-sues-other-race-investors-2215199.html|archive-date=March 7, 2012}}</ref> Further details emerged, reporting that Hellmund was in the process of attempting to acquire Epstein's interest in the company, describing the condition of the circuit as of March 4 as "teetering".<ref name="Tavo A.sport">{{cite news|title=Tavo Hellmund in legal dispute with Austin Grand Prix|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/97834|first=Jonathan|last=Noble|work=Autosport.com|publisher=Haymarket Publications|date=March 4, 2012|access-date=March 6, 2012|archive-date=March 3, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303215934/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/97834|url-status=live}}</ref> Epstein responded to the lawsuit by stating that Hellmund had been found to have been in breach of contract by Formula One Management.<ref name="Tavo A.sport"/> In June 2012, the dispute between Hellmund and Epstein was reported to have been settled out of court.<ref>{{cite news|title=Austin's Grand Prix lawsuit settled: Race day drama averted|url=http://austin.culturemap.com/newsdetail/06-07-12-17-04-austins-grand-prix-lawsuit-settled-race-day-drama-averted/|first=Kevin|last=Benz|work=Culturemap Austin|date=June 9, 2012|access-date=June 10, 2012|archive-date=June 13, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120613182010/http://austin.culturemap.com/newsdetail/06-07-12-17-04-austins-grand-prix-lawsuit-settled-race-day-drama-averted/|url-status=dead}}</ref>
=== Formula One attendance records=== A crowd of 117,429 spectators watched the United States Grand Prix in November 2012 after four years of Formula One not hosting a Grand Prix in the United States.<ref>{{cite news|last=Spurgeon|first=Brad|title=Formula One Makes Successful Return to U.S.|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2012/11/19/sports/autoracing/grand-prix-successful-in-return-to-united-states.html|access-date=November 18, 2012|work=The New York Times|date=November 18, 2012|archive-date=October 21, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231021031612/https://www.nytimes.com/2012/11/19/sports/autoracing/grand-prix-successful-in-return-to-united-states.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In October 2022, the three-day Formula One United States Grand Prix event drew a record number of fans. Roughly 440,000 people attended the event, breaking Formula One's attendance record of 400,000 set at the 2021 United States Grand Prix for an event held in North America.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.why-cota-remains-a-favourite-for-drivers-and-fans-as-it-prepares-for-its.4eXiYC8g4HMppyG1epADlC.html|title=Why COTA remains a favourite for drivers and fans as it prepares for its 10th US Grand Prix|website=Formula1.come|date=20 October 2022|access-date=23 October 2022|archive-date=December 2, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221202004614/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.why-cota-remains-a-favourite-for-drivers-and-fans-as-it-prepares-for-its.4eXiYC8g4HMppyG1epADlC.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Sunday's race final drew over 150,000 spectators to the Circuit of the Americas breaking the inaugural Formula One race at the circuit attendance in 2012. This surge was due to the popularity of ''Formula 1: Drive to Survive'' in the United States and the honoring of the 2020 tickets as the 2020 United States Grand Prix was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/more-sports/f1-united-states-grand-prix-canceled-cota-chairman-calls-2020-a-complete-loss/ar-BB179810#:~:text=F1%E2%80%B2s+U.S.+Grand+Prix,+which+was+scheduled+for,Circuit+of+The+Americas+(@COTA)+July+24,+2020|title=F1 United States Grand Prix canceled; COTA chairman calls 2020 'a complete loss'|website=msn.com|access-date=November 21, 2020|archive-date=November 28, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201128215240/https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/more-sports/f1-united-states-grand-prix-canceled-cota-chairman-calls-2020-a-complete-loss/ar-BB179810#:~:text=F1%E2%80%B2s+U.S.+Grand+Prix,+which+was+scheduled+for,Circuit+of+The+Americas+(@COTA)+July+24,+2020|url-status=live}}</ref>
===Dispute over planned MotoGP race=== {{main|Motorcycle Grand Prix of the Americas}}
In April 2011, plans were unveiled by Tavo Hellmund of Full Throttle Productions and Kevin Schwantz of 3fourTexas for the circuit to host a round of the 2013 MotoGP World Championship, with the race to be known as the Texas Grand Prix.<ref name="COTA">{{cite news|url=http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2011/Texas+GP+announced+for+2013|work=motogp.com|publisher=Dorna Sports|date=April 12, 2011|access-date=September 15, 2012|title=Texas lands MotoGP from 2013|archive-date=September 24, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130924230906/http://www.motogp.com/en/news/2011/Texas+GP+announced+for+2013|url-status=dead}}</ref> The race was the brainchild of Schwantz, the circuit co-designer, who would serve as event promoter with his company, 3fourTexas. However, following the settlement of the lawsuit between Tavo Hellmund and Bobby Epstein, Schwantz announced that he would be suing Steve Sexton. Schwantz claimed that upon the resolution of the dispute between Hellmund and Epstein, Sexton moved to negotiate directly with MotoGP's commercial rights holder, Dorna Sports, ignoring what he claimed was an existing contract between Dorna and 3fourTexas to hold the race.<ref>{{cite news|title=Former MotoGP champ sues over rights to events|url=http://www.statesman.com/sports/former-motogp-champ-sues-over-rights-to-events-2453207.html|first=John|last=Maher|work=Austin-American Statesman|date=September 7, 2012|access-date=September 15, 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120912125645/http://www.statesman.com/sports/former-motogp-champ-sues-over-rights-to-events-2453207.html|archive-date=September 12, 2012}}</ref>
Circuit representatives denied that there was ever a contract between Schwantz and the Circuit of the Americas, and that his dispute was with Dorna Sports.<ref>{{cite news|title=Circuit of the Americas claims Schwantz lawsuit baseless|url=http://www.statesman.com/blogs/content/shared-gen/blogs/austin/racing/entries/2012/09/08/circuit_of_the_americas_claims.html|first=John|last=Maher|work=Austin-American Statesman|date=September 8, 2012|access-date=September 15, 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120911002147/http://www.statesman.com/blogs/content/shared-gen/blogs/austin/racing/entries/2012/09/08/circuit_of_the_americas_claims.html|archive-date=September 11, 2012}}</ref> Dorna later claimed that although a contract for the race between Dorna and Schwantz had existed, the contract had been terminated in July 2012 as they believed Schwantz had failed to acquire the necessary rights from the circuit to hold the race.<ref>{{cite news|title=MotoGP rights holder Dorna says it terminated contract with Schwantz in July|url=http://www.statesman.com/blogs/content/shared-gen/blogs/austin/racing/entries/2012/09/12/motogp_rights_holder_dorna_say.html|work=Austin-American Statesman|date=September 12, 2012|access-date=September 15, 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208213748/http://www.statesman.com/blogs/content/shared-gen/blogs/austin/racing/entries/2012/09/12/motogp_rights_holder_dorna_say.html/|archive-date=December 8, 2015}}</ref> Schwantz then accused Sexton and the Circuit of the Americas of "undermining" him, deliberately blocking his attempts to establish a race in order to have the contract terminated and allowing them to negotiate a more-favourable arrangement with Dorna.<ref>{{cite news|title=Schwantz fires back at COTA, Dorna|url=http://www.statesman.com/blogs/content/shared-gen/blogs/austin/racing/entries/2012/09/13/schwantz_fires_back_at_cota_do.html?cxntfid=blogs_formula_austin|first=John|last=Maher|work=Austin-American Statesman|date=September 13, 2012|access-date=September 15, 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151210213534/http://www.statesman.com/blogs/content/shared-gen/blogs/austin/racing/entries/2012/09/13/schwantz_fires_back_at_cota_do.html/?cxntfid=blogs_formula_austin|archive-date=December 10, 2015}}</ref>
In October 2012, Dorna Sports announced that they had come to agreeable terms with organizers of the Texas motorcycle Grand Prix, including the race on the 2013 calendar as the Motorcycle Grand Prix of the Americas, but made no mention of the dispute with Schwantz or any outcome of it.<ref name="MotoGP in"/> Prior to the 2014 Motorcycle Grand Prix of the Americas, the circuit announced that COTA and Schwantz had amicably settled their legal differences and reached an agreement to collaborate to promote motorcycling racing, with Schwantz taking the role as official ambassador for COTA.<ref>{{cite news|title=Kevin Schwantz joins Circuit of The Americas™ as motorcycle racing ambassador|url=http://circuitoftheamericas.com/media-center/article/kevin-schwantz-joins-circuit-of-the-americas-as-motorcycle-racing-ambassado|work=Circuit Of the Americas|date=March 27, 2014|access-date=May 5, 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140506044549/http://circuitoftheamericas.com/media-center/article/kevin-schwantz-joins-circuit-of-the-americas-as-motorcycle-racing-ambassado|archive-date=May 6, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Kevin Schwantz, COTA reach settlement ahead of MotoGP event|url=http://www.crash.net/motogp/news/201537/1/kevin-schwantz-cota-reach-settlement.html|work=Crash.net|date=March 28, 2014|access-date=May 5, 2014|archive-date=March 3, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303234245/http://www.crash.net/motogp/news/201537/1/kevin-schwantz-cota-reach-settlement.html|url-status=live}}</ref>
===IndyCar Series=== {{main|IndyCar Classic}}
On September 4, 2018, IndyCar announced that it has reached a multi-year agreement to add the Circuit of the Americas to its calendar replacing Phoenix Raceway (then known as ISM Raceway), finalizing the IndyCar Series calendar. After hosting an IndyCar Spring Training test session, on February 12–13, COTA made its debut on the IndyCar Series schedule on Sunday, March 24, serving as the second race of the 2019 campaign, with the AutoNation IndyCar Challenge (IndyCar Classic), following the March 10 season-opener at St. Petersburg, FL. It was the first time since 2014 that two tracks in Texas would appear on the IndyCar Series calendar.
On February 11, 2020, (perhaps as a precursor of the season to come) the opening day of IndyCar Spring Training, cold temperatures and persistent showers severely limited track time for all competitors to slow installation laps and a few experimental runs on rain tires. With improved weather, on February 12, IndyCar concluded its first open test of the season. However, the 2020 race was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. On October 1, 2020, Indycar released the 2021 calendar with COTA dropped from the schedule unexpectedly to the surprise of many, after it was announced two years prior that they had a multi-year deal in place between Indycar and COTA.
===NASCAR=== {{main|NASCAR Cup Series at Circuit of the Americas|NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series at Circuit of the Americas|NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series at Circuit of the Americas|l1 = DuraMAX Grand Prix|l2 = Focused Health 250|l3 = XPEL 225}}
On September 30, 2020, it was announced that COTA would host a NASCAR Cup Series event for the first time on May 23, 2021.<ref>{{cite news|title=Circuit of the Americas to host Cup for first time in 2021|url=https://nascar.nbcsports.com/2020/09/30/circuit-of-the-americas-to-host-cup-for-first-time-in-2021|first=Dustin|last=Long|access-date=September 30, 2020|archive-date=June 1, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230601153056/https://nascar.nbcsports.com/2020/09/30/circuit-of-the-americas-to-host-cup-for-first-time-in-2021/|url-status=live}}</ref> The lower O'Reilly Auto Parts Series and Craftsman Truck Series were also added as support events.<ref>{{cite magazine|last=Crandall|first=Kelly|url=https://racer.com/2020/10/24/xfinity-and-trucks-to-join-cup-series-at-cota/|title=Xfinity and Trucks to join Cup Series at COTA|magazine=Racer|date=October 24, 2020|access-date=November 20, 2020|archive-date=October 21, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231021051045/https://racer.com/2020/10/24/xfinity-and-trucks-to-join-cup-series-at-cota/|url-status=live}}</ref> On December 11, 2020, it was announced that NASCAR would run the full {{convert|3.426|mi|km|abbr=on}} course.<ref>{{cite magazine|last=Utter|first=Jim|url=https://www.autosport.com/nascar/news/154135/nascar-opts-for-f1-track-layout-for-cota-round|title=NASCAR opts for F1 track layout for Circuit of the Americas round|magazine=Racer|date=December 11, 2020|access-date=January 3, 2021|archive-date=January 19, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210119081519/https://www.autosport.com/nascar/news/154135/nascar-opts-for-f1-track-layout-for-cota-round|url-status=live}}</ref> EchoPark Automotive assumed naming rights for the Cup race, which dubbed it the EchoPark Texas Grand Prix. The Xfinity and Truck races were respectively named the Pit Boss 250 and Toyota Tundra 225 with title sponsorship from Pit Boss Grills and Toyota.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nascaratcota.com/news/speedway-motorsports-announces-entitlement-partners-for-inaugural-nascar-circuit-americas-race-weekend.html|title=Speedway Motorsports Announces Entitlement Partners for Inaugural NASCAR at Circuit of The Americas Race Weekend|work=NASCAR at COTA|date=February 25, 2021|access-date=February 25, 2021|archive-date=March 26, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230326224150/https://www.nascaratcota.com/news/speedway-motorsports-announces-entitlement-partners-for-inaugural-nascar-circuit-americas-race-weekend.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nascaratcota.com/news/speedway-motorsports-names-toyota-official-vehicles-nascar-cota-entitlement-partner-for-toyota-tundra-225.html|title=Speedway Motorsports Names Toyota the Official Vehicles of NASCAR at COTA and Entitlement Partner for the Toyota Tundra 225|work=NASCAR at COTA|date=April 19, 2021|access-date=April 19, 2021|archive-date=March 26, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230326221320/https://www.nascaratcota.com/news/speedway-motorsports-names-toyota-official-vehicles-nascar-cota-entitlement-partner-for-toyota-tundra-225.html|url-status=live}}</ref>
The inaugural race weekend was marred by rain, with the Truck race on Saturday being in wet conditions while the O'Reilly Auto Parts Series event later in the day was drier.<ref>{{cite news|last=Pockrass|first=Bob|url=https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nascar/cup-series-drivers-prepare-race-rain-circuit-of-the-americas-bob-pockrass|title=Cup Series drivers prepare to race in treacherous rain at COTA on Sunday|website=Foxsports.com|publisher=Fox Sports|date=May 22, 2021|access-date=May 23, 2021|archive-date=October 21, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231021031609/https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nascar/cup-series-drivers-prepare-race-rain-circuit-of-the-americas-bob-pockrass|url-status=live}}</ref> The Cup race the following day, won by Chase Elliott, was shortened as the weather worsened and caused low driver visibility.<ref>{{cite news|last=Estrada|first=Chris|url=https://nascar.nbcsports.com/2021/05/23/chase-elliott-kyle-larson-kevin-harvick-joey-logano-bubba-wallace-nascar-cup-series-circuit-of-the-americas-race-recap/|title=Chase Elliott wins rain-shortened inaugural COTA Cup race|publisher=NBC Sports|date=May 23, 2021|access-date=May 23, 2021|archive-date=March 31, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230331144320/https://nascar.nbcsports.com/2021/05/23/chase-elliott-kyle-larson-kevin-harvick-joey-logano-bubba-wallace-nascar-cup-series-circuit-of-the-americas-race-recap/|url-status=live}}</ref> On September 15, ''The Athletic'' has reported that NASCAR will return to the circuit for the 2022 season as Speedway Motorsports, the promoter of the race picked up the renewal on the contract. The race ran as scheduled on March 27, 2022.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Bianchi |first1=Jordan |title=NASCAR's 2022 schedule shakes up playoff tracks, adds Gateway in June: Sources |url=https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/4199811/2021/09/14/nascars-2022-schedule-shakes-up-playoff-tracks-adds-gateway-in-june/ |website=The Athletic |access-date=September 15, 2021 |archive-date=September 18, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240918183628/https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/4199811/2021/09/14/nascars-2022-schedule-shakes-up-playoff-tracks-adds-gateway-in-june/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The promoters announced on the week prior to the race that NASCAR will be returning to Austin as they renewed for one more year. It will mark the third time consecutively that NASCAR goes to Austin.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Lyttle |first1=Kevin |title=NASCAR road race to return to COTA in 2023 |url=https://www.statesman.com/story/sports/pro/2022/03/27/nascar-road-race-return-cota-2023/7173224001/ |website=Austin American-Statesman |access-date=7 April 2022 |archive-date=October 21, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231021031645/https://www.statesman.com/story/sports/pro/2022/03/27/nascar-road-race-return-cota-2023/7173224001/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
On November 20, 2024, it was announced that both the Cup and O'Reilly Auto Parts Series races would move to the {{convert|2.356|mi|km|abbr=on}} layout starting in 2025.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Circuit of the Americas to change course layout for Cup and Xfinity races |url=https://www.jayski.com/2024/11/20/circuit-of-the-americas-to-change-course-layout-for-cup-and-xfinity-races/ |website=Jayski |access-date=November 20, 2024 |archive-date=December 4, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241204051016/https://www.jayski.com/2024/11/20/circuit-of-the-americas-to-change-course-layout-for-cup-and-xfinity-races/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
{{As of|2025}}, the Circuit of the Americas is the third-longest road course in the NASCAR Cup series.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Tracks |url=https://www.nascar.com/tracks/#:~:text=What%20is%20the%20biggest%20NASCAR,,%20Wisconsin,%20is%20the%20longest. |access-date=2025-02-19 |website=Official Site Of NASCAR |language=en-US |archive-date=February 16, 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250216093055/https://www.nascar.com/tracks/#:~:text=What%20is%20the%20biggest%20NASCAR,,%20Wisconsin,%20is%20the%20longest. |url-status=live }}</ref>
==Facilities== thumb|left|The Circuit of the Americas facilities in 2018
===Racetrack=== thumb|Main straight and turn 1 hill thumb|Crowd at COTA on race day [[File:2018 US Grand Prix at the Circuit of the Americas.jpg|thumb|The Circuit of the Americas during the 2018 US Grand Prix]]
In an episode of Speed TV's ''Wind Tunnel'' program broadcast on August 22, 2010, Tavo Hellmund revealed that the circuit would be {{convert|3.426|mi|km}} long and would be made up of twenty turns with an elevation change of {{convert|133|ft|m}}. The final plan of the circuit was released on September 1, 2010, showing a design inspired by the European tradition of sculpting the circuit to the contours of the land. The design draws from several European Formula One circuits, including a recreation of Silverstone's Maggotts–Becketts–Chapel sequence, Hockenheim's arena bends, and a replica of Istanbul's Turn Eight.<ref>{{Cite news|title=Austin circuit layout revealed|publisher=Formula One Administration|work=formula1.com|url=http://www.formula1.com/news/headlines/2010/9/11198.html|date=September 1, 2010|access-date=September 1, 2010|archive-date=June 29, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629021209/http://www.formula1.com/news/headlines/2010/9/11198.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Other corners were loosely inspired by the Senna 'S' at Interlagos,<ref name="Tavo & Kevin" /> Turn 4 at the Buddh International Circuit and Turns 9-10 at Bahrain, the latter two tracks also designed by Tilke. A feature of the circuit is a deliberate widening of corners, to encourage drivers to follow multiple racing lines.<ref>{{cite news|work=ESPN F1|publisher=ESPN Emea Ltd.|url=http://en.espnf1.com/f1/motorsport/story/52061.html|title=F1 Texan style|first=Mark|last=Sutton|date=June 20, 2011|access-date=June 22, 2011|archive-date=June 23, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110623131731/http://en.espnf1.com/f1/motorsport/story/52061.html|url-status=live}}</ref> A similar feature was used at the Buddh International Circuit in India, where the circuit widens on the approach to certain corners.
The circuit was one of only a handful on the Formula One 2012 calendar to be run counter-clockwise, the others being Marina Bay, the Korea International Circuit, Yas Marina, and Interlagos. Because of this, the circuit contains more left-hand turns than right-hand ones, placing greater physical demands on the drivers whose bodies, particularly their necks, are more adapted to the lateral g-forces of clockwise circuits. thumb|left|Pit lane From the start line, the drivers climb a gradient of over 11% to the first corner called Big Red—the highest point of the circuit—with the apex of the corner positioned on the crest of the hill, similar to Turn 4 of India. They then take a downhill right-hander inspired by the Senna 'S' of Interlagos before climbing back up the side of the hill to navigate a series of fast sweepers modeled on Silverstone's Maggotts–Becketts–Chapel complex, which is turns 3-6 at COTA. These sweepers tighten through turns 7-9, while continuing the esses, but slowing the cars down substantially, requiring drivers to downshift to 4th gear and through a blind corner at Turn 10. This corner takes them to the far end of the circuit and a hairpin at Turn 11 where the drivers then follow a {{convert|0.62|mi|km|adj=on}} straight back towards the pit and paddock area. This straight leads to the final sector of the lap with a heavy braking zone and a sequence of corners inspired by the arena bends of Hockenheim, to Turns 9 and 10 of Bahrain, a corner that significantly tightens in the second part, requiring drivers to brake and turn at the same time. This is followed by a downhill, multi-apex corner with limited run-off modeled after turn 8 at Istanbul Park, before the final two corners of the circuit, a pair of left-hand bends that return the drivers to the main straight.
====Reception==== The reception from drivers ahead of the inaugural race was highly positive. Fernando Alonso and Lewis Hamilton both praised the circuit, suggesting that it would be considerably more difficult to learn than other recent additions to the Formula One calendar.<ref>{{cite news|title=F1 drivers have positive first impression of COTA|url=http://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/2012/11/16/drivers-positive-impression-cota/|first=Keith|last=Collantine|work=F1 Fanatic|publisher=Keith Collantine|date=November 16, 2012|access-date=November 16, 2012|archive-date=July 4, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170704033945/http://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/2012/11/16/drivers-positive-impression-cota/|url-status=live}}</ref> Jenson Button described the first sector as "spectacular", but remarked that he felt that starting second would be better than starting first as the placement of pole position put it on a steeper incline than the rest of the grid.<ref name="JB KOB">{{cite news|title=United States GP: Jenson Button says Austin perfect showcase for F1|first1=Jonathan|last1=Noble|first2=Pablo|last2=Elizale|work=Autosport.com|publisher=Haymarket Publications|date=November 15, 2012}}</ref> Mark Webber called the track "pretty good", praising in particular the track's quick first sector.<ref>{{cite news|title=Drivers praise COTA but race prospects aren't good|url=http://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/2012/11/17/2012-united-states-grand-prix-friday-practice-analysis/|first=Keith|last=Collantine|work=F1 Fanatic|publisher=Keith Collantine|date=November 17, 2012|access-date=November 17, 2012|quote=But fellow Australian Mark Webber was not quite as fulsome in praise, pointing out that after the first sector it became much like any other modern circuit: “It’s a pretty good track, it’s quick, especially the first sector which is quite full on, although sectors two and three are more traditional and similar to other tracks.”|archive-date=March 4, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304041805/http://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/2012/11/17/2012-united-states-grand-prix-friday-practice-analysis/|url-status=live}}</ref> Kamui Kobayashi however was less enthusiastic, claiming that he did not feel intimidated by the steep climb to the first corner as it was no different from Eau Rouge at the Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, and accusing the media of hyping it up without precedent.<ref name="JB KOB"/>
===Grand Plaza=== thumb|left|COTA on race day thumb|left|COTA on opening day – from Parking Lot A Bordered by the track on three sides, the Grand Plaza is a {{convert|20|acre|km2|adj=on}} space designed by Miró Rivera Architects of Austin, Texas that includes a large reflecting pool, lawn, and varying landscape zones. A promenade along the north side of the Grand Plaza hosts concessions, retail, restroom facilities, and entrances to spectator seating. From the southeast end of the Grand Plaza, two pedestrian bridges cross over turns 16 and 3 to provide access for visitors to other areas of the circuit complex.<ref name="eyesin.com">{{cite news|title=Formula 1 Facilities Look Fast and Fresh|url=http://www.eyesin.com/architecture/2012/formula-1-facilities-looks-fast-and-fresh/|access-date=November 19, 2012|newspaper=EYES IN Architecture|date=November 17, 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130122190117/http://www.eyesin.com/architecture/2012/formula-1-facilities-looks-fast-and-fresh/|archive-date=January 22, 2013}}</ref>
===Observation tower=== thumb|Tower at COTA The Circuit of the Americas features a {{convert|251|ft|m|adj=on}} observation tower designed by Miró Rivera Architects and built by Patriot Erectors as a landmark for the venue. The structure of the tower consists of an elevator hoist-way surrounded by a double helix staircase of 419 stairs, both of which lead to an observation platform {{convert|230|ft|m}} above ground level. The platform provides a 360-degree panorama of the circuit, as well as views to downtown Austin, Texas. The observation platform, which is accessible to the public for an admission fee, can accommodate up to 70 visitors and features glass railings and a partial glass floor.<ref>{{cite news|title=Scarlet cascade for observation tower|url=http://www.worldarchitecturenews.com/index.php?fuseaction=wanappln.projectview&upload_id=21298|access-date=November 19, 2012|newspaper=World Architecture News|date=November 16, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121119211732/http://www.worldarchitecturenews.com/index.php?fuseaction=wanappln.projectview&upload_id=21298|archive-date=November 19, 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> In addition, a "veil" consisting of 18 bright red steel tubes runs nearly the full height of the tower, acting as a canopy for both the observation platform and the stage below. The design of the observation tower was inspired by the visual imagery of sports cars and movement, and the red color was selected to mimic the streaks of lights trailing racecars at night.<ref>{{cite news|last=Bernstein|first=Fred A.|title=A Towering Landmark for Formula One Track|url=http://wheels.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/11/15/a-towering-landmark-for-formula-one-track/|access-date=November 19, 2012|newspaper=The New York Times "Wheels" Blog|date=November 15, 2012|archive-date=October 27, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211027214821/https://wheels.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/11/15/a-towering-landmark-for-formula-one-track/|url-status=live}}</ref>
===Germania Insurance Amphitheater=== {{see main|Germania Insurance Amphitheater}}
[[File:Collective Soul, Circuit of the Americas Tower Amphitheater, Austin, TX USA, November, 17 2012.jpg|thumb|left|Collective Soul performing at the Tower Amphitheater]] thumb|right|The Germania Insurance Amphitheater as seen from the top of the tower On July 23, 2012, COTA announced a booking agreement with Live Nation to book major concerts at an open air amphitheater to be built at the base of the observation tower. Designed by Miró Rivera Architects, the venue opened in April 2013 with a concert by Kenny Chesney.<ref>{{cite news|last=Doolittle|first=Dave|title=Live Nation to book national touring concerts at circuit amphitheater|url=http://www.statesman.com/blogs/content/shared-gen/blogs/austin/racing/entries/2012/07/23/live_nation_to_book_national_t.html|access-date=September 6, 2012|newspaper=Austin-American Statesman|date=July 23, 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120727175804/http://www.statesman.com/blogs/content/shared-gen/blogs/austin/racing/entries/2012/07/23/live_nation_to_book_national_t.html|archive-date=July 27, 2012}}</ref> The amphitheater accommodates up to 14,000 people with 5,240 permanent reserved seats. Another 1,700 seats can be configured on the stage-front floor or there is standing room for 2,300. The remaining general admission spots are on a sloping grass area behind the reserved seats. The venue was originally going to be called Tower Amphitheater, but under a deal closed in March 2013, was renamed to Austin360 Amphitheater, with naming rights sold to the entertainment/events website associated with the ''Austin American-Statesman''.<ref>{{cite news|title=Austin360 Amphitheater at racetrack set to be Austin area's largest outdoor venue|url=http://www.statesman.com/news/entertainment/austin360-amphitheater-at-f1-racetrack-set-to-be-a/nWh82/|publisher=Austin-American Statesman|access-date=March 6, 2013|date=March 6, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131105082805/http://www.statesman.com/news/entertainment/austin360-amphitheater-at-f1-racetrack-set-to-be-a/nWh82/|archive-date=November 5, 2013|url-status=dead}}</ref> Beginning January 1, 2020, COTA renamed the venue the Germania Insurance Amphitheater under a seven-year deal with the Brenham, Texas–based insurance company.<ref>{{cite web |title=Insurance Company Buys Naming Rights to COTA's Amphitheater |url=https://spectrumlocalnews.com/tx/austin/news/2019/12/22/insurance-company-buys-naming-rights-to-cota-s-amphitheater |website=Spectrum News |publisher=Charter Communications |access-date=January 3, 2020 |archive-date=October 21, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231021051055/https://spectrumlocalnews.com/tx/austin/news/2019/12/22/insurance-company-buys-naming-rights-to-cota-s-amphitheater |url-status=live }}</ref>
===Germania Insurance Super Stage===
{{see also|Germania Insurance Amphitheater#Germania Insurance Super Stage}}
The Germania Insurance Super Stage is a temporary stage used for concerts that exceed the 14,000 capacity of the Germania Insurance Amphitheater. The Super Stage is mainly used for the F1 Concerts and the big acts. It is located in the infield of Circuit of the Americas between Turn 11 and Turn 12. ESPN built the Super Stage for the X Games Austin 2015.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Coryell |first1=Grace |title=Games Austin 2015 Reveals Sports Lineup and Nicki Minaj Performance |url=https://espnpressroom.com/us/press-releases/2015/01/x-games-austin-2015-reveals-sports-lineup-nicki-minaj-performance/ |website=ESPNPressRoom |date=January 20, 2015 |publisher=ESPN |access-date=15 December 2023 |archive-date=December 15, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231215052134/https://espnpressroom.com/us/press-releases/2015/01/x-games-austin-2015-reveals-sports-lineup-nicki-minaj-performance/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=P!NK, Imagine Dragons to Headline Formula 1 US Grand Prix Concerts |url=https://spectrumlocalnews.com/tx/austin/news/2019/04/16/circuit-of-americas-announces-2019-formula-1-usgp-concerts |website=SpectrumLocalNews |publisher=Charter Communications |access-date=15 December 2023 |archive-date=December 15, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231215051350/https://spectrumlocalnews.com/tx/austin/news/2019/04/16/circuit-of-americas-announces-2019-formula-1-usgp-concerts |url-status=live }}</ref>
===Main Grandstand=== The primary permanent seating at Circuit of the Americas is located within the Main Grandstand, designed by Miró Rivera Architects.<ref>{{cite news|last=Maher|first=John|title=Austin firm pushes to finish F1 track work|url=http://www.statesman.com/sports/formula1/austin-firm-pushes-to-finish-f1-track-work-2099095.html|access-date=September 6, 2012|newspaper=Austin-American Statesman|date=January 12, 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120615134733/http://www.statesman.com/sports/formula1/austin-firm-pushes-to-finish-f1-track-work-2099095.html|archive-date=June 15, 2012}}</ref> Above-ground construction on the grandstand began in March 2012, and the "topping out" occurred in June 2012 with completion in time for the inaugural United States Grand Prix.
The Main Grandstand is {{convert|65|ft|m|abbr=on}} tall, and has a total capacity of approximately 9,000 spectators. The seating is divided into three levels: lower level (capacity ~5400, including Loge Boxes), club level (capacity ~2900), and suite level (capacity ~750). The majority of seating is covered by a tensile fabric canopy. The primary structure is {{convert|500|ft|m|abbr=on}} long, while the lower risers extend an additional {{convert|500|ft|m|abbr=on}}. The grandstand also contains concessions, restrooms, offices, and two lounge spaces located at the second and third levels. The Velocity Lounge on the second level is approximately {{cvt|7100|sqft|m2|abbr=on}}, and contains a 36-screen video wall and the acrylic painting "Velocity" by Dallas-based artist Christopher Martin measuring {{convert|120|ft|m|abbr=on}} in length.<ref>{{cite news|last=Morgan|first=Kendall|title=Dallas artist Christopher Martin adds epic accent to Austin's Circuit of the Americas|url=http://dallas.culturemap.com/newsdetail/arts-dallas-artist-christopher-martin-velocity-austin-circuit-of-the-americas/|access-date=November 19, 2012|newspaper=CultureMap Dallas|date=November 8, 2012|archive-date=November 11, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121111215630/http://dallas.culturemap.com/newsdetail/arts-dallas-artist-christopher-martin-velocity-austin-circuit-of-the-americas/|url-status=dead}}</ref>
Both the Main Grandstand and the concessions buildings in the Grand Plaza were conceived as a modular system consisting of several components that can be arranged according to need. The concessions, with banners and deep canopies, can be expanded with restrooms, permanent seating or suites. Inherent to this "kit-of-parts" construction system is flexibility allowing the site to grow and change.<ref name="eyesin.com"/>
===Karting=== The facility features a karting track that has 15 turns and is {{cvt|0.63|mi|km|abbr=on}} long. It has wide turns, a set of S-turns and a new hairpin turn that comes off a sweeper turn. The Karting Track is located in front of the Main Grandstand. The karts can go up to speeds up to {{cvt|55|mph|km/h}}.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Martin |first1=Bruce |title=Formula One Promoter Bobby Epstein Explains F1 Success, And Why IndyCar Is Not At COTA |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/brucemartin/2022/12/29/formula-one-promoter-bobby-epstein-explains-f1-success-and-why-indycar-is-not-at-cota/?sh=567a1deb2f11 |website=Forbes |access-date=29 December 2023 |archive-date=December 29, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231229040119/https://www.forbes.com/sites/brucemartin/2022/12/29/formula-one-promoter-bobby-epstein-explains-f1-success-and-why-indycar-is-not-at-cota/?sh=567a1deb2f11 |url-status=live }}</ref>
===Bold Stadium=== {{see also|Austin Bold FC|Austin Gilgronis}} {{Infobox venue | name = Bold Stadium | native_name = | native_name_lang = | fullname = | former_names = | logo_image = | logo_caption = | image = | image_size = | image_alt = | caption = | pushpin_map = | pushpin_mapsize = | pushpin_map_caption = | pushpin_label_position = | pushpin_relief = | address = Del Valle, TX 78617 | location = Austin, Texas | coordinates = {{Coord|30.1359|N|97.6393|W}} | type = | event = | broke_ground = {{Start date and age|2018|10}} | built = | opened = {{Start date|2019}} | renovated = | expanded = | closed = | demolished = | owner = | operator = | surface = Grass | scoreboard = | production = | cost = | architect = | builder = | project_manager = | structural_engineer = | services_engineer = | general_contractor = | main_contractors = | seating_type = | capacity = 5,036 | suites = | record_attendance = | dimensions = | field_shape = Rectangular | acreage = | volume = | tenants = Austin Bold FC (USLC) (2019–2021)<br />Austin Gilgronis (MLR) (2020–2022) | embedded = | website = <!-- {{URL|https://www.gilgronis.com/bold-stadium/}} --> | public_transit = }} In August 2017, a new soccer-specific stadium was announced to be built between the Amphitheater and the Grand Plaza. A professional soccer team known as Austin Bold FC began playing in the USL Championship in 2019 until 2021. The stadium seats 5,000 people.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.uslsoccer.com/news_article/show/821487?referrer_id=2333971 |title=USL Announces Return to Austin in 2019 |access-date=August 9, 2017 |archive-date=August 9, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170809173016/http://www.uslsoccer.com/news_article/show/821487?referrer_id=2333971 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.mystatesman.com/sports/soccer/austin-pro-soccer-franchise-will-roll-2019-000-seat-cota-venue/yYB4EAQ56lWkGc4L9i9izI/ |title=Austin pro soccer franchise will roll in 2019 in 5,000-seat COTA venue |access-date=August 9, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180630185641/https://www.mystatesman.com/sports/soccer/austin-pro-soccer-franchise-will-roll-2019-000-seat-cota-venue/yYB4EAQ56lWkGc4L9i9izI/ |archive-date=June 30, 2018 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref name="BoldStadium">{{cite web |title=Stadium |url=https://www.austinboldfc.com/stadium |website=www.austinboldfc.com |access-date=March 7, 2019 |archive-date=March 7, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190307112626/https://www.austinboldfc.com/stadium |url-status=dead }}</ref> The Austin Gilgronis of Major League Rugby were playing home games at the stadium in 2020. {{clear}}
===COTALAND=== {{Main|COTALAND}} COTALAND is a planned amusement park on the grounds of the Circuit of the Americas. COTA announced the theme park in 2022 with plans to have some rides operational in 2023. The expected opening date is now in 2026. The park will feature thirty plus rides on thirty acres between turns 19 and 20 of the COTA racetrack. One of the major rides is Circuit Breaker, the first tilt roller coaster in Texas and second in the United States. Circuit Breaker opened for preview rides during the 2025 United States Grand Prix weekend on a pay-per-ride basis.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Gregory |first1=John |title=Austin’s Cotaland opens new coaster – for $25 per ride |url=https://www.themeparktribune.com/austins-cotaland-opens-new-coaster-for-25-per-ride/ |publisher=Theme Park Tribune |access-date=1 December 2025 |archive-date=December 11, 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251211073507/https://www.themeparktribune.com/austins-cotaland-opens-new-coaster-for-25-per-ride/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Another large roller coaster, Palindrome, is a Gerstlauer “Infinity shuttle coaster” and the first steel coaster in the United States to pass over an active road. The idea behind COTALAND is to make COTA a year-round destination, instead of only hosting occasional races and events.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Jones |first1=Cristela |title=Highly anticipated Texas amusement park faces delays, teases new opening |url=https://www.mysanantonio.com/business/article/cotaland-park-opening-date-austin-21021476.php |website=MySA |publisher=Hearst Newspapers, LLC |access-date=1 December 2025 |archive-date=December 23, 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251223121446/https://www.mysanantonio.com/business/article/cotaland-park-opening-date-austin-21021476.php |url-status=live }}</ref>
===Hotel=== A 1,000 room resort hotel with a 170,000 foot conference center is being planned on the western portion of the plot of land on which the Circuit of the Americas sits. The total cost of the project is expected to be $985 million.
On April 23, 2026, the Austin City Council approved a 30 year deal wherein a portion of the hotel occupancy tax would be refunded.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Thompson |first=Ben |date=2026-04-24 |title=Council advances incentive deal for nearly $1B Circuit of the Americas resort |url=https://communityimpact.com/austin/east-austin/government/2026/04/24/council-advances-incentive-deal-for-nearly-1b-circuit-of-the-americas-resort/ |access-date=2026-05-04 |website=Community Impact |language=English |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260504125402/https://communityimpact.com/austin/east-austin/government/2026/04/24/council-advances-incentive-deal-for-nearly-1b-circuit-of-the-americas-resort |archive-date=2026-05-04 |url-status=live}}</ref>
==Layout configurations== {{Gallery | title = Circuit of The Americas layout configurations | align = center | footer = | style = text-align:center; | mode = packed | File:Austin circuit.svg | Grand Prix Circuit (2012–present) | File:COTA National Circuit.png | National Circuit (2012–present) | File:Circuit of the Americas - Rallycross track.png | Rallycross Circuit (2018–present) | File:COTA NASCAR Layout.png | NASCAR Circuit (2025–present) }}
==Records== ===Official record race lap times=== As of May 2026, the fastest official race lap records at the Circuit of the Americas are listed as:<!-- <noinclude> Record lap times are from the fastest to the slowest lap.. </noinclude> -->
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible" !Category!!Time!!Driver!!Vehicle!!Event <!-- <noinclude> Lap times are listed from the most fastest to least fastest</noinclude> --> |- ! colspan=5 | Grand Prix Circuit (2012–present): {{cvt|5.513|km|abbr=on|order=flip}} |- | F1 || '''1:36.169''' || Charles Leclerc || Ferrari SF90 || 2019 United States Grand Prix |- | LMP1 || '''1:47.052'''<ref name="2016_wec_cota">{{Cite web |title=2016 FIA WEC - 6 Hours of Circuit of the Americas - Results - Final Classification by Class |url=http://fiawec.alkamelsystems.com/Results/06_2016/06_CIRCUIT%20OF%20THE%20AMERICAS/139_FIA%20WEC/201609171700_Race/Hour%206/05_ClassificationByClass_Race.PDF |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230326030626/http://fiawec.alkamelsystems.com/Results/06_2016/06_CIRCUIT%20OF%20THE%20AMERICAS/139_FIA%20WEC/201609171700_Race/Hour%206/05_ClassificationByClass_Race.PDF|publisher=Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) |date=18 September 2016 |archive-date=26 March 2023 |access-date=18 September 2022 |url-status=live}}</ref> || Loïc Duval || Audi R18 || 2016 6 Hours of Circuit of the Americas |- | IndyCar || '''1:48.8953'''<ref>{{Cite web |title=2019 IndyCar Classic - Official Lap Report |url=http://www.imscdn.com/INDYCAR/Documents/5477/2019-03-24/indycar-boxscore.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190324223047/http://www.imscdn.com/INDYCAR/Documents/5477/2019-03-24/indycar-boxscore.pdf |date=24 March 2019 |archive-date=24 March 2019 |access-date=7 May 2022 |url-status=live}}</ref> || Colton Herta || Dallara DW12 || 2019 IndyCar Classic |- | Formula V8 || '''1:51.437'''<ref>{{Cite web |title=2017 World Series Formula V8 3.5 - 6 Hours of Circuit of the Americas - Race 2 (40' +1 lap) - Final Classification |url=http://worldseriesv8.alkamelsystems.com/Results/01_2017/08_CIRCUIT%20OF%20THE%20AMERICAS/191_World%20Series%20Formula%20V8%203.5/201709161000_Race%202/03_Classification_Race%202.PDF |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240324162637/http://worldseriesv8.alkamelsystems.com/Results/01_2017/08_CIRCUIT%20OF%20THE%20AMERICAS/191_World%20Series%20Formula%20V8%203.5/201709161000_Race%202/03_Classification_Race%202.PDF |date=16 September 2017 |archive-date=24 March 2024 |access-date=24 March 2024 |url-status=live}}</ref> || René Binder || Dallara T12 || 2017 Austin Formula V8 round |- | LMP2 || '''1:52.545'''<ref name="2020_wec_cota">{{Cite web |title=2020 FIA WEC - Lone Star Le Mans - Results - Final Classification |url=http://fiawec.alkamelsystems.com/Results/09_2019-2020/05_CIRCUIT%20OF%20THE%20AMERICAS/311_FIA%20WEC/202002231200_Race/Hour%206/03_Classification_Race_Hour%206.PDF |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211015070344/http://fiawec.alkamelsystems.com/Results/09_2019-2020/05_CIRCUIT%20OF%20THE%20AMERICAS/311_FIA%20WEC/202002231200_Race/Hour%206/03_Classification_Race_Hour%206.PDF |publisher=Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) |date=23 February 2020 |archive-date=15 October 2021 |access-date=18 September 2022 |url-status=live}}</ref> || Nyck de Vries || Oreca 07 || 2020 Lone Star Le Mans |- | LMH || '''1:52.564'''<ref name='2024_wec_cota'>{{cite web |title=2024 FIA WEC - Lone Star Le Mans - Final Classification By Driver Fastest Lap |url=http://fiawec.alkamelsystems.com/Results/13_2024/06_CIRCUIT%20OF%20THE%20AMERICAS/558_FIA%20WEC/202409011300_Race/Hour%206/07_FastestLapByDriver_Race_Hour%206.PDF |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240902052254/http://fiawec.alkamelsystems.com/Results/13_2024/06_CIRCUIT%20OF%20THE%20AMERICAS/558_FIA%20WEC/202409011300_Race/Hour%206/07_FastestLapByDriver_Race_Hour%206.PDF |publisher=Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) |website=fiawec.alkamelsystems.com |date=1 September 2024 |archive-date=2 September 2024 |access-date=2 September 2024 |url-status=live}}</ref> || Kamui Kobayashi || Toyota GR010 Hybrid || 2024 Lone Star Le Mans |- | LMDh || '''1:52.584'''<ref name='2024_wec_cota' /> || Charles Milesi || Alpine A424 || 2024 Lone Star Le Mans |- | Indy Lights || '''1:56.5740'''<ref>{{Cite web |title=2019 Austin Indy Lights |url=https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/database/races/2019-austin-indy-lights/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231201235249/https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/database/races/2019-austin-indy-lights/ |website=Motor Sport Magazine |date=23 March 2019 |archive-date=1 December 2023 |access-date=24 March 2024 |url-status=live}}</ref> || Oliver Askew || Dallara IL-15 || 2019 Indy Lights Classic |- | DPi || '''1:57.198'''<ref name="2017_imsa_cota">{{Cite web |title=2017 IMSA Sportscar Showdown at COTA - Race Official Results (160') |url=http://imsa.alkamelsystems.com/Results/17_2017/08_Circuit%20of%20the%20Americas/01_IMSA%20WeatherTech%20SportsCar%20Championship/201705061335_Race/03_Results%20-%20Official.PDF |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210814170405/http://imsa.alkamelsystems.com/Results/17_2017/08_Circuit%20of%20the%20Americas/01_IMSA%20WeatherTech%20SportsCar%20Championship/201705061335_Race/03_Results%20-%20Official.PDF |publisher=International Motor Sports Association (IMSA) |date=11 May 2017 |archive-date=14 August 2021 |access-date=2 January 2023 |url-status=live}}</ref> || Jordan Taylor || Cadillac DPi-V.R || 2017 IMSA Sportscar Showdown at COTA |- | DP || '''1:58.616'''<ref name="2015_imsa_cota">{{Cite web |title=United SportsCar Championship Austin 2015 |url=https://www.racingsportscars.com/race/Austin-2015-09-19a.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150508125940/https://www.racingsportscars.com/race/Austin-2015-09-19a.html |date=19 September 2015 |archive-date=8 May 2015 |access-date=2 January 2023 |url-status=live}}</ref> || Joey Hand || Riley Mk XXVI || 2015 Lone Star Le Mans |- | LMPC || '''2:01.245'''<ref name="2015_imsa_cota"/> || Renger van der Zande || Oreca FLM09 || 2015 Lone Star Le Mans |- | LMP3 || '''2:01.352'''<ref>{{cite web |title=2026 IMSA Airbnb Endurance Challenge at COTA - Circuit of the Americas - Race Provisional Results (2 Hours) |url=https://imsa.results.alkamelcloud.com/Results/26_2026/10_Circuit%20of%20the%20Americas%20(AEC)/01_IMSA%20AirBNB%20Endurance%20Challenge/202605091105_Race/03_Results_Race_Provisional.PDF |publisher=International Motor Sports Association (IMSA) |date=9 May 2026 |access-date=11 May 2026}}</ref> || Jules Caranta || Duqueine D09 || 2026 2nd Austin IMSA VP Racing SportsCar Challenge round |- | MotoGP || '''2:02.037''' || Ai Ogura || Aprilia RS-GP 26 || 2026 United States motorcycle Grand Prix |- | Formula Atlantic || '''2:02.514'''<ref>{{Cite web |title=2019 SCCA Supertour Polar Prix - Group 5: FA, FB, P1, P2, FE, FE2, FM - Saturday Official Race Results |url=https://cdn.connectsites.net/user_files/scca/downloads/000/043/972/Group_5_Saturday_Race_-_Official.pdf |date=9 February 2019 |access-date=15 October 2024}}</ref> || Flinn Lazier || Swift 016.a || 2019 Austin SCCA Formula Atlantic round |- | LM GTE || '''2:02.522'''<ref name="2020_wec_cota"/> || Nicki Thiim || Aston Martin Vantage AMR || 2020 Lone Star Le Mans |- | Pro Mazda || '''2:03.116'''<ref>{{Cite web |title=2013 Grand-Am of the Americas presented by GAINSCO and TOTAL - Pro Mazda Championship presented by Cooper Tires - Official Race Report — Round 2 |url=https://www.usfpro2000.com/docs/default-source/Results/2013-Season/COTA/2013-pro-mazda-cota-r2-race.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240324162638/https://www.usfpro2000.com/docs/default-source/Results/2013-Season/COTA/2013-pro-mazda-cota-r2-race.pdf |date=2 March 2013 |archive-date=24 March 2024 |access-date=24 March 2024 |url-status=live}}</ref> || Matthew Brabham || Star Formula Mazda 'Pro' || 2013 Austin Pro Mazda Championship round |- | GT3 || '''2:03.650'''<ref name='2026_austin_apex'>{{Cite web |title=6H COTA Apex One 06 - 07 February 2026 - Result Apex Focus - Sprint 1 - Revision 1 - Final Result Sprint 1 |url=https://resultscdn.getraceresults.com/2026/Apex%20One/6H%20COTA%20Apex%20One%206%20-%208%20February%202026/APEX%20FOCUS%20-%20SPRINT%201.pdf |date=7 February 2026 |access-date=11 February 2026}}</ref> || Scott Blind || Porsche 911 (992) GT3 R || 2026 Austin Apex Focus Sprint round |- | Formula Regional || '''2:04.698'''<ref>{{Cite web |title=2020 Circuit of the Americas - Round 15 Official Race Result - Revised |url=https://mcusercontent.com/e4e91fada898e41afee23244f/files/5a8614f9-6b2a-4e81-922d-0377ba9e61f2/FR_Round_15_Official_Race_Results_REVISED.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210814170405/https://mcusercontent.com/e4e91fada898e41afee23244f/files/5a8614f9-6b2a-4e81-922d-0377ba9e61f2/FR_Round_15_Official_Race_Results_REVISED.pdf |date=25 October 2020 |archive-date=14 August 2021 |access-date=7 May 2022 |url-status=live}}</ref> || Linus Lundqvist || Ligier JS F3 || 2020 Austin FR Americas round |- | TA1 || '''2:04.787'''<ref>{{cite web |title=Trans Am Championship Presented by Pirelli - Circuit of the Americas - October 31st - Nov 2nd, 2025 - Round 12 - Official Race Results |url=https://gotransam.com/assets/TA%20and%20GT%20Classes%20Official%20Race%20Results%20-%20COTA%202025.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251104054207/https://gotransam.com/assets/TA%20and%20GT%20Classes%20Official%20Race%20Results%20-%20COTA%202025.pdf |date=2 November 2025 |archive-date=4 November 2025 |access-date=3 November 2025 |url-status=live}}</ref> || Matthew Brabham || Ford Mustang Trans-Am || 2025 Austin Trans-Am round |- | GT || '''2:05.053'''<ref>{{cite web |title=American Le Mans Series Austin 2013 |url=https://www.racingsportscars.com/race/Austin-2013-09-22a.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230326030507/https://www.racingsportscars.com/race/Austin-2013-09-22a.html |date=22 September 2013 |archive-date=26 March 2023 |access-date=6 February 2023 |url-status=live}}</ref> || Jonathan Bomarito || SRT Viper GTS-R || 2013 International Sports Car Weekend |- | Ferrari Challenge || '''2:05.246'''<ref>{{Cite web |title=2026 Ferrari Challenge North America - Circuit of the Americas - Trofeo Pirelli - Race 1 - Provisional Results (30 Minutes) |url=http://ferrarichallenge.alkamelsystems.com/Results/04_North%20America/08_2026/05_CIRCUIT%20OF%20THE%20AMERICAS/01_Trofeo%20Pirelli/202605161345_Trofeo%20Pirelli%20Race%201/03_Results_Trofeo%20Pirelli%20Race%201_Provisional.PDF |date=16 May 2026 |access-date=17 May 2026}}</ref> || Johnny Kaminskey || Ferrari 296 Challenge || 2026 Austin Ferrari Challenge North America round |- | Porsche Carrera Cup || '''2:06.061'''<ref name='2026_austin_apex' /> || Alan Metni || Porsche 911 (992 II) GT3 Cup || 2026 Austin Apex Focus Sprint round |- | Moto2 || '''2:06.456''' || David Alonso || Kalex Moto2 || 2026 United States motorcycle Grand Prix |- | Lamborghini Super Trofeo || '''2:06.698'''<ref>{{Cite web |title=2024 Lone Star Le Mans - Lamborghini Super Trofeo - Race 2 Official Results (50 Minutes) |url=https://imsa.results.alkamelcloud.com/Results/24_2024/16_Circuit%20of%20the%20Americas/01_Lamborghini%20Super%20Trofeo/202409010950_Race%202/03_Results_Race%202_Official.PDF |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240914192435/https://imsa.results.alkamelcloud.com/Results/24_2024/16_Circuit%20of%20the%20Americas/01_Lamborghini%20Super%20Trofeo/202409010950_Race%202/03_Results_Race%202_Official.PDF |publisher=International Motor Sports Association (IMSA) |date=9 September 2024 |archive-date=14 September 2024 |access-date=14 September 2024 |url-status=live}}</ref> || Danny Formal || Lamborghini Huracán LP 620-2 Super Trofeo Evo2 || 2024 Austin Lamborghini Super Trofeo North America round |- | Superbike || '''2:07.497'''<ref>{{Cite web |title=2025 MotoAmerica Superbikes at Texas - Superbike - Race 2 Results |url=https://www.motoamericaregistration.com/Results/2025/TEX/25_13_TEX_SBK_R2_res.pdf |archive-date=November 26, 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251126163819/https://www.motoamericaregistration.com/Results/2025/TEX/25_13_TEX_SBK_R2_res.pdf |date=14 September 2025 |access-date=15 September 2025 |url-status=live}}</ref> || Cameron Beaubier || BMW M1000RR || 2025 Austin MotoAmerica Superbike round |- | Formula 4 || '''2:08.107'''<ref>{{Cite web |title=2023 F1 Academy Austin Race 1 Final Results |url=https://www.f1academy.com/Results?raceid=7 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231210055551/https://www.f1academy.com/Results?raceid=7 |date=21 October 2023 |archive-date=10 December 2023 |access-date=1 September 2024 |url-status=dead}}</ref> || Marta García || Tatuus F4-T421 || 2023 Austin F1 Academy round |- | McLaren Trophy || '''2:08.343'''<ref>{{cite web |title=2025 McLaren Trophy America Round 3 & 4 - Circuit of the Americas - Race 2 Provisional Results (50 Minutes) |url=http://usac.alkamelna.com/Results/06_SRO/25_2025/03_Circuit%20of%20the%20Americas/18_McLaren%20Trophy%20America/202504271105_Race%202/03_Provisional%20Results_Race%202.PDF |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250427171559/http://usac.alkamelna.com/Results/06_SRO/25_2025/03_Circuit%20of%20the%20Americas/18_McLaren%20Trophy%20America/202504271105_Race%202/03_Provisional%20Results_Race%202.PDF |date=27 April 2025 |archive-date=27 April 2025 |access-date=28 April 2025 |url-status=live}}</ref> || John Capestro-Dubets || McLaren Artura Trophy || 2025 Austin McLaren Trophy America round |- | Grand-Am GT || '''2:09.009'''<ref name='austin_grand-am_2013'>{{cite web |title=Grand-Am Austin 2013 |url=https://www.racingsportscars.com/race/Austin-2013-03-02.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230326030527/https://www.racingsportscars.com/race/Austin-2013-03-02.html |date=2 March 2013 |archive-date=26 March 2023 |access-date=6 February 2023 |url-status=live}}</ref> || Eric Curran || Chevrolet Corvette C6.R GT2 || 2013 Grand-Am of The Americas |- | Formula 1000 || '''2:09.229'''<ref>{{Cite web |title=BFGoodrich Tires Texas Super Tour - A 2013 US Majors Tour Event Presented by Lone Star Region - Group 5 - CSR, DSR, FA, FB - Sunday Revised Official Results |url=https://usf1000.com/Resources/PDF/Race%202%20-%20USF1000%20EAST%20&%20WEST%20-%20Sunday.pdf |date=10 March 2013 |access-date=15 October 2024}}</ref> || JR Osborne || Citation F1000 || 2013 Austin US Formula 1000 Championship round |- | TA2 || '''2:10.090'''<ref>{{cite web |title=Trans Am Championship Presented by Pirelli - CUBE 3 Architecture TA2 Series, presented by Pirelli - Circuit of the Americas - October 31st - Nov 2nd, 2025 - Round 12 - Official Race Results |url=https://gotransam.com/assets/CUBE%203%20Architecture%20TA2%20Series%20Official%20Race%20Results%20%20-%20COTA%202025.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251104001614/https://gotransam.com/assets/CUBE%203%20Architecture%20TA2%20Series%20Official%20Race%20Results%20%20-%20COTA%202025.pdf |date=2 November 2025 |archive-date=4 November 2025 |access-date=3 November 2025 |url-status=live}}</ref> || Helio Meza || Chevrolet Camaro Trans-Am || 2025 Austin Trans-Am round |- | NASCAR Cup || '''2:11.549'''<ref>{{Cite web |title=2024 NASCAR Cup Series EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix Race Statistics |url=https://motorsportstats.com/results/nascar-cup-series/2024/echopark-automotive-grand-prix/stats |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240325060651/https://motorsportstats.com/results/nascar-cup-series/2024/echopark-automotive-grand-prix/stats |date=24 March 2024 |archive-date=25 March 2024|access-date=25 March 2024 |url-status=live}}</ref> || Christopher Bell || Toyota Camry TRD || 2024 EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix |- | Bagger World Cup || '''2:12.348'''<ref>{{cite web |last=Gasnier |first=Mathilde |title=H-D Bagger World Cup: Results From Race Two at COTA |url=https://www.roadracingworld.com/news/h-d-bagger-world-cup-results-from-race-two-at-cota/ |website=Road Racing World |date=29 March 2026 |access-date=29 March 2026}}</ref>|| Oscar Gutierrez || Harley-Davidson || 2026 Austin Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup round |- | Supersport || '''2:12.544'''<ref>{{Cite web |title=2025 MotoAmerica Superbikes at Texas - Motovation Supersport - Race 1 Results |url=https://www.motoamericaregistration.com/Results/2025/TEX/25_13_TEX_SSP_R1_res.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251122024217/https://www.motoamericaregistration.com/Results/2025/TEX/25_13_TEX_SSP_R1_res.pdf |date=13 September 2025 |archive-date=22 November 2025 |access-date=14 September 2025 |url-status=live}}</ref> || Mathew Scholtz || Yamaha YZF-R9 || 2025 Austin MotoAmerica Supersport round |- | Moto3 || '''2:13.417''' || Guido Pini || Honda NSF250RW || 2026 United States motorcycle Grand Prix |- | NASCAR Truck || '''2:13.440'''<ref>{{Cite web |title=2024 NASCAR Truck Series XPEL 225 Race Statistics |url=https://motorsportstats.com/results/nascar-truck-series/2024/xpel-225/stats |date=23 March 2024 |access-date=24 March 2024}}</ref> || Corey Heim || Toyota Tundra NASCAR || 2024 XPEL 225 |- | USF Juniors || '''2:13.980'''<ref>{{cite web |title=2023 USF Juniors Circuit of the Americas Race 2 Statistics |url=https://motorsportstats.com/results/usf-juniors/2023/americas/stats/race-2 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230827205337/https://motorsportstats.com/results/usf-juniors/2023/americas/stats/race-2 |date=27 August 2023 |archive-date=27 August 2023 |access-date=27 August 2023 |url-status=live}}</ref> || Nicolas Giaffone || Tatuus JR-23 || 2023 Cooper Tires Circuit of The Americas Grand Prix |- | NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts || '''2:13.985'''<ref>{{Cite web |title=2024 NASCAR Xfinity Series Focused Health 250 Race Statistics |url=https://motorsportstats.com/results/nascar-xfinity-series/2024/focused-health-250/stats |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240324162637/https://motorsportstats.com/results/nascar-xfinity-series/2024/focused-health-250/stats |date=23 March 2024 |archive-date=24 March 2024 |access-date=24 March 2024 |url-status=live}}</ref> || Shane van Gisbergen || Chevrolet Camaro SS NASCAR || 2024 Focused Health 250 |- | GT4 || '''2:14.539'''<ref name='2026_austin_apex' /> || Josh Green || Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS Clubsport || 2026 Austin Apex Focus Sprint round |- | SRO GT2 || '''2:14.850'''<ref>{{Cite web |title=Circuit of the Americas - May 17–19, 2024 / Austin, TX - GT America powered by AWS - Race 2 Provisional Result |url=https://www.gtamerica.us/documents/notice/1236/GT+America+Race+2+Provisional+-+Results.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240519213708/https://www.gtamerica.us/documents/notice/1236/GT+America+Race+2+Provisional+-+Results.pdf |date=19 May 2024 |archive-date=19 May 2024 |access-date=19 May 2024 |url-status=live}}</ref> || Alan Grossberg || Lamborghini Huracán Super Trofeo GT2 || 2024 Austin GT America round |- | Grand-Am GX || '''2:17.876'''<ref name='austin_grand-am_2013' /> || Spencer Pumpelly || Porsche Cayman || 2013 Grand-Am of The Americas |- | Twins Cup || '''2:17.997'''<ref>{{Cite web |title=2024 MotoAmerica Superbikes at Texas - BellissiMoto Twins Cup - Race 1 Restart - Results |url=https://www.motoamericaregistration.com/Results/2024/RDAMER/24_5_RDAMER_TWN_Q2_res.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241203021528/https://www.motoamericaregistration.com/Results/2024/RDAMER/24_5_RDAMER_TWN_Q2_res.pdf |date=14 September 2024 |archive-date=3 December 2024 |access-date=30 September 2024 |url-status=live}}</ref> || Alessandro Di Mario || Aprilia RS660 || 2024 Austin MotoAmerica Twins Cup round |- | TCR Touring Car || '''2:18.404'''<ref>{{Cite web |title=2020 TC America COTA Race 2 Results |url=https://www.tsl-timing.com/file/?f=PWC/2020/201006rc2tca.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230326030634/https://www.tsl-timing.com/file/?f=PWC/2020/201006rc2tca.pdf |date=8 March 2020 |archive-date=26 March 2023 |access-date=18 September 2022 |url-status=live}}</ref> || Tyler Maxson || Hyundai Veloster N TCR || 2020 1st Austin TC America round |- | Formula Ford || '''2:18.845'''<ref>{{Cite web |title=2023 Lone Star GP - SCCA Hoosier Super Tour Grp6 - FF/FV/F6 Sat - Revised Official Race Results - Race (25:00 or 10 Laps) started at 15:57:36 |url=https://www.scca.com/events/2002079-lone-star-grand-prix-hoosier-scca-super-tour-circuit-of-the-americas/event_sessions/2002733-grp-6-ff-fv-f6-race-1 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240519213707/https://www.scca.com/events/2002079-lone-star-grand-prix-hoosier-scca-super-tour-circuit-of-the-americas/event_sessions/2002733-grp-6-ff-fv-f6-race-1 |date=11 February 2023 |archive-date=19 May 2024 |access-date=19 May 2024 |url-status=live}}</ref> || James Weida || Scorpion W1 || 2023 Austin SCCA Formula Ford round |- | Mustang Challenge || '''2:20.675'''<ref>{{cite web |title=2024 Lone Star Le Mans - Mustang Challenge - Race 2 Official Results (45 Minutes) |url=https://imsa.results.alkamelcloud.com/Results/24_2024/16_Circuit%20of%20the%20Americas/02_Mustang%20Challenge/202409010840_Race%202/03_Results_Race%202_Official.PDF |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240914192434/https://imsa.results.alkamelcloud.com/Results/24_2024/16_Circuit%20of%20the%20Americas/02_Mustang%20Challenge/202409010840_Race%202/03_Results_Race%202_Official.PDF |publisher=International Motor Sports Association (IMSA) |date=9 September 2024 |archive-date=14 September 2024 |access-date=14 September 2024 |url-status=live}}</ref> || Jeremy Fletcher || Ford Mustang Dark Horse R || 2024 Austin Mustang Challenge round |- | Toyota GR Cup || '''2:28.112'''<ref>{{cite web |title=2025 Toyota GR Cup North America Round 3 & 4 - Circuit of the Americas - Race 2 Provisional Results (45 Minutes) |url=http://usac.alkamelna.com/Results/06_SRO/25_2025/03_Circuit%20of%20the%20Americas/15_TGRNA%20GR%20Cup%20North%20America/202504271215_%20Race%202/03_Provisional%20Results_%20Race%202.PDF |date=27 April 2025 |access-date=28 April 2025}}</ref> || Jaxon Bell || Toyota GR86 || 2025 Austin Toyota GR Cup North America round |- | Mazda MX-5 Cup || '''2:31.0334'''<ref>{{cite web |title=2019 Global MX-5 Cup at COTA - Race 2 Lap Report |url=https://www.mx-5cup.com/docs/default-source/results/mx5cup-race-results-r22d7c122f8d4765b8b2f6ff0000cf2672.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230805080251/https://www.mx-5cup.com/docs/default-source/results/mx5cup-race-results-r22d7c122f8d4765b8b2f6ff0000cf2672.pdf |date=24 March 2019 |archive-date=5 August 2023 |access-date=5 August 2023 |url-status=live}}</ref> || Selin Rollan || Mazda MX-5 (ND) || 2019 Austin Mazda MX-5 Cup round |- | 250cc || '''2:37.150'''<ref>{{Cite web |title=2022 North America Talent Cup: Race Two Results from COTA |url=https://www.roadracingworld.com/news/north-america-talent-cup-race-two-results-from-cota/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231021051043/https://www.roadracingworld.com/news/north-america-talent-cup-race-two-results-from-cota/ |date=10 April 2022 |archive-date=21 October 2023 |access-date=10 April 2022 |url-status=live}}</ref> || Jesse Shedden || Aprilia RS250SP2 || 2022 Austin North America Talent Cup round |- ! colspan=5 | NASCAR Circuit (2025–present): {{cvt|3.862|km|abbr=on|order=flip}} |- | LMP3 || '''1:29.216'''<ref>{{cite web |title=2026 DuraMAX Grand Prix - IMSA VP Racing SportsCar Challenge - Race 2 Provisional Results (45 Minutes) |url=https://imsa.results.alkamelcloud.com/Results/26_2026/04_Circuit%20of%20the%20Americas/01_IMSA%20VP%20Racing%20SportsCar%20Challenge/202602281730_Race%202/03_Results_Race%202_Provisional.PDF |publisher=International Motor Sports Association (IMSA) |date=28 February 2026 |access-date=1 March 2026}}</ref> || Wyatt Brichacek || Ligier JS P325 || 2026 1st Austin IMSA VP Racing SportsCar Challenge round |- | GT3 || '''1:32.499'''<ref name='2025_austin_imsa_vp_r1'>{{cite web |title=2025 EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix - IMSA VP Racing SportsCar Challenge - Race 1 Provisional Results (45 Minutes) |url=https://imsa.results.alkamelcloud.com/Results/25_2025/05_Circuit%20of%20the%20Americas/01_IMSA%20VP%20Racing%20SportsCar%20Challenge/202503010840_Race%201/03_Results_Race%201_Provisional.PDF |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250301213002/https://imsa.results.alkamelcloud.com/Results/25_2025/05_Circuit%20of%20the%20Americas/01_IMSA%20VP%20Racing%20SportsCar%20Challenge/202503010840_Race%201/03_Results_Race%201_Provisional.PDF |publisher=International Motor Sports Association (IMSA) |date=1 March 2025 |archive-date=1 March 2025 |access-date=3 March 2025 |url-status=live}}</ref> || Jake Walker || BMW M4 GT3 || 2025 Austin IMSA VP Racing SportsCar Challenge round |- | GT4 || '''1:38.903'''<ref name='2025_austin_imsa_vp_r1' /> || Kiko Porto || Toyota GR Supra GT4 Evo2 || 2025 Austin IMSA VP Racing SportsCar Challenge round |- | NASCAR Cup || '''1:39.244'''<ref>{{Cite web |title=2025 NASCAR Cup Series EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix Race Statistics |url=https://motorsportstats.com/results/nascar-cup-series/2025/echopark-automotive-grand-prix/stats |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251117220952/https://motorsportstats.com/results/nascar-cup-series/2025/echopark-automotive-grand-prix/stats |date=2 March 2025 |archive-date=17 November 2025 |access-date=3 March 2025 |url-status=live}}</ref> || Kyle Larson || Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 NASCAR || 2025 EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix |- | NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts || '''1:39.452''' || Shane van Gisbergen || Chevrolet Camaro SS NASCAR || 2026 Focused Health 250 |- ! colspan=5 | National Circuit (2012–present): {{cvt|3.702|km|abbr=on|order=flip}} |- | Pirelli World Challenge GT || '''1:33.284'''<ref name='pwc_austin_2013'>{{Cite web |title=V8 Supercars Weekend at Circuit of the Americas on May 16–19 2013 - Final Race Results - Pirelli World Challenge GT/GTS Round 5 |url=http://www.world-challenge.com/images/events/FIN-Race-Results-1--234.PDF |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150131234538/http://www.world-challenge.com/images/events/FIN-Race-Results-1--234.PDF |date=21 May 2013 |archive-date=31 January 2015 |access-date=20 September 2023 |url-status=dead}}</ref> || Johnny O'Connell || Cadillac CTS-V || 2013 Austin Pirelli World Challenge round |- | V8 Supercars || '''1:33.5415'''<ref>{{Cite web |title=Austin 400 - 2013 V8 Supercar Championship - Races 13–16 - Circuit of the Americas - V8 Supercars - Race 16 Official Result |url=http://racing.natsoft.com.au/649574133/object_725412.81p/Result?20 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230207220901/http://racing.natsoft.com.au/649574133/object_725412.81p/Result?20 |date=19 May 2013 |archive-date=7 February 2023 |access-date=20 September 2023 |url-status=dead}}</ref> || Jason Bright || Holden Commodore (VF) || 2013 Austin 400 |- | Porsche Carrera Cup || '''1:35.3252'''<ref>{{Cite web |title=Austin 400 - 2013 V8 Supercar Championship - Races 13–16 - Circuit of the Americas - Pirelli GT3 Cup Trophy USA West - Race 2 Official Result |url=http://racing.natsoft.com.au/649574133/object_725412.81p/Result?16 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230207220902/http://racing.natsoft.com.au/649574133/object_725412.81p/Result?16 |date=19 May 2013 |archive-date=7 February 2023 |access-date=20 September 2023 |url-status=dead}}</ref> || Madison Snow || Porsche 911 (997 II) GT3 Cup || 2013 Austin GT3 Cup Trophy USA West round |- | Pirelli World Challenge GTS || '''1:40.720'''<ref name='pwc_austin_2013' /> || Andy Lee || Chevrolet Camaro || 2013 Austin Pirelli World Challenge round |- | Pirelli World Challenge TC || '''1:46.244'''<ref>{{Cite web |title=V8 Supercars Weekend at Circuit of the Americas on May 16–19 2013 - Final Race Results for TC - Pirelli World Challenge TC/TCB Round 1 |url=http://www.world-challenge.com/images/events/FIN-Race-Results-1-TC--7.PDF |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160229024847/http://www.world-challenge.com/images/events/FIN-Race-Results-1-TC--7.PDF |date=19 May 2013 |archive-date=29 February 2016 |access-date=20 September 2023 |url-status=dead}}</ref> || Remo Ruscitti || Honda Civic Si || 2013 Austin Pirelli World Challenge round |- | Pirelli World Challenge TCB || '''2:00.908'''<ref>{{Cite web |title=V8 Supercars Weekend at Circuit of the Americas on May 16–19 2013 - Final Race Results for TCB - Pirelli World Challenge TC/TCB Round 3 |url=http://www.world-challenge.com/images/events/FIN-Race-Results-1-TCB--6.PDF |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160229024851/http://www.world-challenge.com/images/events/FIN-Race-Results-1-TCB--6.PDF |date=21 June 2013 |archive-date=29 February 2016 |access-date=20 September 2023 |url-status=dead}}</ref> || Ernie Francis Jr. || Mazda 2 || 2013 Austin Pirelli World Challenge round |}
===Other records=== The fastest unofficial lap record is 1:32.029 set by Valtteri Bottas in a Mercedes AMG F1 W10 EQ Power+ during qualifying at the 2019 United States Grand Prix.<ref name=o48>{{cite web |last=Gassman |first=Alex |title=COTA Lap Record & Fastest Lap Times: F1, Nascar, MotoGP… |url=https://oversteer48.com/cota-lap-record/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251118005327/https://oversteer48.com/cota-lap-record/ |date=22 April 2024 |archive-date=18 November 2025 |access-date=12 November 2025 |url-status=live}}</ref>
The first official production car record is 2:10.7 set in a Czinger 21C in 2024.<ref name=tg>{{cite web |last=Abidin |first=Shafiq |title=The Czinger 21C is now the production car record holder at COTA |url=https://www.topgear.com/car-news/motorsport/czinger-21c-now-production-car-record-holder-cota |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251118113805/https://www.topgear.com/car-news/motorsport/czinger-21c-now-production-car-record-holder-cota |publisher=Top Gear |date=16 August 2024 |archive-date=18 November 2025 |access-date=12 November 2025 |url-status=live}}</ref> Records before COTA officially started tracking production cars were held by the Hennessey Venom F5 Revolution and the McLaren P1.
The top speed of {{cvt|221.5|mph|km/h|round=5}} was achieved by Maverick Viñales in 2023 in an Aprilia MotoGP bike.<ref name=o48/>
==Events==
===Current events===
* February: Apex One Endurance * March: Grand Prix motorcycle racing ''United States motorcycle Grand Prix'', NASCAR Cup Series ''DuraMAX Grand Prix'', NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series ''Focused Health 250'', IMSA VP Racing SportsCar Challenge, Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup * April: GT World Challenge America, GT America Series, GT4 America Series, TC America Series, Toyota Gazoo Racing Cup North America * May: IMSA VP Racing SportsCar Challenge, Ferrari Challenge North America, Porsche Sprint Challenge North America, Mustang Cup Series * September: FIA World Endurance Championship ''Lone Star Le Mans'', MotoAmerica ''Superbikes at Texas'', Mustang Challenge North America, Radical Cup North America * October: Formula One ''United States Grand Prix'', F1 Academy, Porsche Carrera Cup North America * November: Trans-Am Series ''COTA SpeedTour'', Sportscar Vintage Racing Association * December: World Racing League ''COTA National Championship'', ChampCar Endurance Series
===Minor events===
The circuit hosts minor completions such as:
{| class="wikitable mw-collapsible" ! colspan=3 | Minor events <!-- <noinclude> Events are listed from the earliest to the latest. </noinclude> --> |- | style="background-color:whitesmoke" | '''Completion''' | style="background-color:whitesmoke" | '''Race Name''' | style="background-color:whitesmoke" | '''Years''' |- | Sportscar Vintage Racing Association | U.S. Vintage Racing National Championship | 2013–present |- | Ferrari Challenge North America | Ferrari Challenge at COTA | 2013–2014, 2016–2020, 2022–2024, 2026 |- | World Racing League | COTA National Championship | 2015–present |- | ChampCar Endurance Series | The Lone Star Double Down at COTA | 2016–2017, 2020, 2026 |- | GT4 America Series | Lone Star Enduro at COTA | 2019–2021, 2023–present |- | TC America Series | TC America at COTA | 2019–2021, 2023–present |- | Super Lap Battle | SLB at COTA | 2020–present |- | GT America Series | GT America at COTA | 2021, 2023–present |- | Porsche Carrera Cup North America | Porsche Carrera Cup North America at COTA | 2021, 2023–present |- | Porsche Sprint Challenge North America | Porsche Sprint Challenge North America at COTA | 2021, 2023–present |- | Toyota Gazoo Racing Cup North America | Gazoo Racing Cup North America at COTA | 2023–present |- | F1 Academy | F1 Academy at COTA | 2023, 2026 |- | Mustang Challenge North America | Mustang Challenge at COTA | 2024–present |- | IMSA VP Racing SportsCar Challenge | IMSA VP Racing SportsCar Challenge at COTA | 2025–present |- | Apex One Endurance | Apex One Endurance 12H of COTA | 2026 |- | Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup | Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup at COTA | 2026 |- | Radical Cup North America | Radical Cup North America at COTA | 2026 |}
===Former events===
The track has hosted various events like the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, IndyCar Series and the X Games. {| class="wikitable mw-collapsible" ! colspan=3 | Former events <!-- <noinclude> Events are listed from the earliest to the latest. </noinclude> --> |- | style="background-color:whitesmoke" | '''Completion''' | style="background-color:whitesmoke" | '''Race Name''' | style="background-color:whitesmoke" | '''Years''' |- | Porsche Pirelli GT3 Cup Trophy USA | Porsche Pirelli GT3 Cup Trophy at COTA | 2012–2013, 2015–2018 |- | Rolex Sports Car Series | Grand-Am of the Americas | 2013 |- | Michelin Pilot Challenge | Lone Star Le Mans | 2013–2017 |- | USF Pro 2000 Championship | USF Pro 2000 at COTA | 2013, 2023 |- | Sports Car Club of America | The Lone Star Grand Prix | 2013, 2017–2023 |- | US Formula 1000 Championship | US Formula 1000 Championship at COTA | 2013 |- | Grand Prix motorcycle racing | Motorcycle Grand Prix of the Americas | 2013–2019, 2021–2025 |- | V8 Supercars | Austin 400 | 2013 |- | American Le Mans Series | International Sports Car Weekend | 2013 |- | IMSA Prototype Lites | IMSA Prototype Lites at COTA | 2013 |- | IMSA GT3 Cup Challenge | Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge USA at COTA | 2013–2017 |- | Summer X Games | X Games Austin | 2014–2016 |- | IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship | Lone Star Le Mans | 2014–2017 |- | Porsche Supercup | Austin Race | 2014–2016 |- | Global Rallycross | X Games Austin | 2014–2015 |- | Stadium Super Trucks | X Games Austin, SST at COTA | 2014–2015, 2019 |- | Lamborghini Super Trofeo North America | Lamborghini Super Trofeo North America at COTA | 2015–2017, 2021, 2024 |- | Masters Racing Legends | Masters Racing Legends @ COTA | 2015, 2017, 2019, 2021–2024 |- | NACAM Formula 4 Championship | F4 NACAM at COTA | 2016 |- | Radical Cup North America | Radical Cup North America at COTA | 2016–2023 |- | American Flat Track | Flat Track at COTA | 2016 |- | SprintX GT Championship Series | SprintX at COTA | 2017–2018 |- | Formula 4 United States Championship | F4 at COTA | 2017–2024 |- | World Series Formula V8 3.5 | Austin Race | 2017 |- | 24H Series | Hankook 24H COTA | 2017–2019 |- | Mazda MX-5 Cup | Global MX-5 Cup at COTA | 2018–2019 |- | Americas Rallycross Championship | ARX of Austin | 2018–2019 |- | National Auto Sport Association | NASA Championships at COTA | 2018 |- | FIA World Rallycross Championship | World RX of the United States | 2018 |- | Formula Regional Americas Championship | FR Americas at COTA | 2018, 2020–2024 |- | IndyCar Series | IndyCar Classic | 2019 |- | Indy Lights | Indy Lights Classic | 2019 |- | GT Sports Club America | GT Sports Club at COTA | 2020 |- | GT Celebration | Masters @ GT Celebration | 2021–2022 |- | W Series | Austin W Series round | 2021 |- | NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series | XPEL 225 | 2021–2024 |- | North America Talent Cup | North America Talent Cup at COTA | 2022 |- | USF Juniors | Cooper Tires Circuit of the Americas Grand Prix Finale | 2022–2023 |- | Ligier JS F4 Series | Ligier JS F4 Series at COTA | 2024 |- | McLaren Trophy America | McLaren Trophy America at COTA | 2025 |}
===Cancelled events=== COTA would have hosted the inaugural Intercontinental GT Challenge and the AutoNation INDYCAR Challenge. {| class="wikitable mw-collapsible" ! colspan=3 | Cancelled events <!-- <noinclude> Events are listed from the earliest to the latest. </noinclude> --> |- | style="background-color:whitesmoke" | '''Completion''' | style="background-color:whitesmoke" | '''Race Name''' | style="background-color:whitesmoke" | '''Years''' |- | V8 Supercars | Austin 400 | 2014 |- | Intercontinental GT Challenge | 6 Hours of the Americas | 2016 |- | Blancpain GT Series | Blancpain GT Series at COTA | 2016 |- | IndyCar Series | AutoNation Indycar Challenge | 2020 |- | Formula One | United States Grand Prix | 2020 |- | MotoAmerica | Championship of Texas | 2020–2021 |- | FIA Formula 3 Championship | F3 at COTA | 2021 |- | W Series | Austin W Series round | 2022 |}
==References== {{reflist}}
==External links== {{Commons}} * [http://www.circuitoftheamericas.com/ Circuit of the Americas – Official website] * [https://www.formula1.com/en/racing/2022/United_States.html United States Grand Prix – Official website] * [https://www.motogp.com/en/event/Americas Grand Prix of the Americas - Official website] * [https://www.nascaratcota.com/ Texas Grand Prix - Official website] * [https://www.fiawec.com/en/track/show/12 Lone Star Le Mans - Official website] * [https://www.motoamerica.com/cota/ Championship of Texas - Official website] * [https://gotransam.com/events/Circuit-of-The-Americas/8902 Austin Speedtour - Official website] *[http://germaniaamp.com/ Germania Insurance Amphitheater - Official website] * [https://www.motorsportmaps.com/products/circuit-of-the-americas/ Race Track Guide] * [http://www.mirorivera.com Miró Rivera Architects.] * [http://seatingchartview.com/circuit-americas/ Circuit of the Americas Seating Charts] * [http://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/f1-information/going-to-a-race/circuit-americas-track-information/ Circuit of the Americas circuit guide]
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