F1 Returns to USA - COTA - Bring on 2013!!

[JohnBM01]

I still wonder about this circuit for motorcycles after hearing about MotoGP wanting to race this course. We'll have to see something like AMA Road Racing or something race around COTA to gauge what it will be like for motorcycles. COTA does seem like a track that would be quite competitive for motorcycles.

 

[RACECAR]

I still wonder about this circuit for motorcycles after hearing about MotoGP wanting to race this course. We'll have to see something like AMA Road Racing or something race around COTA to gauge what it will be like for motorcycles.

I'm pretty sure I remember an announcement of MotoGP actually having a date at COTA in 2013 during the live press conference with Ben Spies and Colins Edwards on hand.

 

[prisonermonkeys]

I'm pretty sure I remember an announcement of MotoGP actually having a date at COTA in 2013 during the live press conference with Ben Spies and Colins Edwards on hand.

There was an announcement, but it appears that the dispute between Tavo Hellmund and the financiers rendered it null and void.

 

[prisonermonkeys]

Pardon the double-post, but I've just found this picture (taken in the past few days) that clearly shows the progress of the final layer of asphalt - and it's nearly done:

Here's a ground-level view from somewhere around turn s 3-5:

And this is the Tower and the Amphitheatre, which are located inside the Istanbul-esque turns 16, 17 and 18:

From ground level:

I believe the tower itself will be a digital scoreboard of sorts, showing the positions of the lead cars (similar to the one in Barcelona).

 

[Bye Ya]

Oi, the barrel distortion in that wide shot. Can't wait to see how F1 turns out in Austin. I really hope it does well.

 

[evertV12]

1st picture look sweet I really like the track layout. Many different corner combinations. But how the circuit will work for actual race.. no idea. But definately it's a drivers circuit to make it go fast there.

 

[CodeRedR51]

If anyone is interested, K1 Speed (indoor karting) is giving away trips to the F1 race in Austin through a time trial competition at some of it's locations. Requires a $75 entry fee, 50 entries will be taken at each location. Top time from each location get's a trip to the F1 race.

Info HERE.

 

[CodeRedR51]

Construction update. Nearing completion!

http://circuitoftheamericas.com/articles/cota-poised-for-a-strong-finish1

 

[BlacqueJacques]

Thanks for that link; excitement builds!

 

[bzking23]

it looks like there might be a second pit lane installed at the back straight like abu dubai since there is a little shortcut or something right there, would be cool for superkart racing

 

[prisonermonkeys]

As far as I know, there are no plans to make a second, smaller circuit there. COTA owns the land on the outside of the circuit along the straight, but I believe all of that is being turned into a spectator embankment. As for the infield, it's unlikely that anything will be built there as it would obscure the view of the racing from the main grandstand. That was COTA's big thing when the circuit was first announced - that 90% of the circuit would be visible from the main grandstand.

So while the far loop might get used occasionally, it will only be used for smaller events that don't require a dedicated pit lane.

 

[CodeRedR51]

Paving is complete.

http://circuitoftheamericas.com/articles/cota-completes-track-pavement-with-success

 

[prisonermonkeys]

I believe Charlie Whiting is due to inspect the circuit in three days. At this point, it sounds like a mere formality.

 

[CodeRedR51]

 

[Endless-Wilso]

What an insane circuit I can't wait to see onboard laps.

 

[nissman]

Just saw the F2012 version of the track and I think its awesome! Many overtaking opportunities it will be great to watch this race in Austin, it will be action packed race.

Edit: Wow at the picture above!

 

[ghskilla]

Nice track...

Hope the hype lives up to its expectations, which sadly it usually doesn't.

 

[LancerEvo7]

Needs more sand and grass runoff.

 

[CodeRedR51]

Wish we would get this track (in all 3 configurations) in GT. Might be a few (or 10) years.

 

[prisonermonkeys]

Needs more sand and grass runoff.

Sand and grass haven't been used for years.

 

[CodeRedR51]

Track has been approved by the FIA.

http://circuitoftheamericas.com/articles/fia-gives-cota-thumbs-up

 

[DemurgicDemon]

Nice car park.

 

[JohnBM01]

From Speed Channel's Facebook fan page, MotoGP at the new Circuit of the Americas is on again for 2013. Check it out:

http://moto-racing.speedtv.com/article/motogp-austin-re-announced-for-2013/

So are you ready for MotoGP to rock Austin next year?

 

[CodeRedR51]

Nope. V8 Supercars or bust for me. Just waiting for them to announce the race date and I'll be setting up a savings just for the trip! I'll hitch hike if I need to!

 

[Sanji Himura]

Uphill Turn 1, Kaz, You must put this in GT, stat.

 

[RACECAR]

So are you ready for F1, MotoGP and Austrailian V8s to rock Austin?

Seriously though, I'm stoked. Bring em on.

 

[prisonermonkeys]

Just waiting for them to announce the race date and I'll be setting up a savings just for the trip!

The calendar is traditionally unveiled n the Bathurst weekend, but V8 Supercars Australia have said that the 2013 calendar will probably be delayed as they try to sort out some of the international events. It may not come out until the Gold Coast weekend on 19-21 October.

Also, going to see the V8s is totally worth it. I went to the Homebush Bay round in 2009, and the sound is absolutely phenomenal. I just hope VESA don't do something stupid like demanding that every car has a local guest driver.

 

[CodeRedR51]

Circuit of the Americas race date confirmed to be May 17-19, 2013.

http://www.v8supercars.com.au/champ...-confirmed/tabid/70/newsid/13000/default.aspx

Same weekend as the NASCAR All Star Race. Tickets on sale October 16th.

 

[Pupik]

If you really want to park your car just outside the track, prepare to be lightened by...$214.13

(In ten years, I've never used that smiliey until now...No joke.)

Also, don't bring a camera with a lens over 10 inches long.

 

[CodeRedR51]

That's for the F1 race. I'm hoping the prices are a bit cheaper for everything else...