Formula 1 has announced that it will continue racing at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, until at least 2026.
The race joined the calendar as the United States Grand Prix in 2012 and has been held every year since bar 2020, when the event was cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Last year’s round at COTA saw a record-breaking 400,000 fans attend the event.
F1’s popularity in the US has grown substantially in recent years, with more and more fans tuning into race weekends.
“We are thrilled to be announcing the extension with the Circuit of the Americas ahead of the exciting new 2022 season,” said F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali.
“I want to thank the promoter for their ongoing dedication and enthusiasm for Formula 1 where together we are continuing to grow the excitement around our sport in the US following the huge success of Netflix, the work of ESPN, and the incredible season we had in 2021.
“Austin is a great city, and the track is a favourite for all the drivers, and we cannot wait to be back in October for more action and entertainment.”
Bobby Epstein, Founding Partner at Circuit of The Americas, added: “The Formula 1 United States Grand Prix has become one of the biggest and greatest events in the world.
“We are extremely proud it has found a home in Texas – at Circuit of The Americas – and are grateful to the millions of fans who visited us over our first decade.
“We knew Austin, along with our neighbours in San Antonio and beyond, would be welcoming hosts – and they proved it! Thanks to everyone in the Formula 1 community for supporting our endeavours and rewarding our hard work.
“We are glad to have renewed our commitments and look forward to many more years of World Championship racing, entertainment, and fun.”
COTA is one of two permanent races on the F1 schedule, as Miami signed a long-term agreement to host the Miami Grand Prix, the first of which will take place this year.
The situation is totally unacceptable. This is a world championship and there can only be one race per country. Either Austin or Miami has to go, or they should be made to alternate.