US GP eyes record crowd as covid measures fade
"We’re expecting up to 380,000 spectators over the weekend"
Organisers of the US GP in Austin are confident a new deal to keep hosting Formula 1 at the Circuit of the Americas will soon be reached.
The chances of that have only risen over the course of this weekend - the first in Texas since 2019, before the start of the covid-19 pandemic.
Inside the paddock, Formula 1’s strict covid guidelines remain in place - but it’s a different story for the 120,000 spectators in the grandstands each day.
Mask wearing in Texas is voluntary, and F1 attendees are not required to be vaccinated. As a result, the circuit is bursting at the scenes with spectators.
"The number of visitors corresponds to that of four Super Bowls, all in one weekend. It will be a historic event," said US GP boss Bobby Epstein.
"It could even be a record - even more than the premiere in 2012. We’re expecting up to 380,000 spectators over the weekend."
A delegation from Las Vegas is in Austin this weekend for talks with Formula 1 about a potential race in Nevada’s famous casino capital in 2023.
But also taking place are discussions about a new grand prix contract for Austin.
"It’s not about whether Formula 1 will stay in Austin, it’s about for how long," Epstein insisted. "And the financial details."
Calendrier - circuits F1
F1 not ruling out new race deal for Barcelona
F1 return to France is ’possible’ says Nice mayor
Thailand could push Monza off F1 calendar
F1 unlikely to feature two Italian races in 2026 - CEO
More on Calendrier - circuits F1