Circuit of the Americas Circuit Guide

Circuit of the Americas: The Pinnacle of American Motorsport

Nestled in the vibrant city of Austin, Texas, Circuit of the Americas (COTA) is a world-class racetrack that has redefined motorsport in the United States. Opened in 2012 and hailed as "America's Formula 1 Track," it’s the most expensive road course in North America, purpose-built to host the glamour and speed of Formula One. But this circuit is more than just F1—it’s a motorsport Mecca, attracting global events like the FIA World Rallycross Championship and FIM MotoGP World Championship.

The COTA Tower, standing an impressive 251 feet tall, is the circuit’s iconic centerpiece, offering breathtaking views of the track and surrounding Texas landscape. The track itself is an engineering marvel: 3.4 miles of winding asphalt packed with 20 corners, a staggering 110 feet of elevation gain, and a deliberate design aimed at maximizing overtaking opportunities. It’s also one of the few anti-clockwise circuits on the F1 calendar, a distinction it shares with the likes of Interlagos and Marina Bay.

COTA’s layout takes inspiration from some of the world’s most celebrated tracks, combining challenging esses reminiscent of Silverstone’s Maggotts-Becketts, hairpin turns, and sweeping straights. The result is a technical, high-speed circuit that rewards both precision and daring.

But COTA isn’t just about racing; it’s a full-throttle destination. The nearby city of Austin is a cultural hotspot, famous for its vibrant music scene, world-class dining, and buzzing nightlife. For families and casual fans, the city offers plenty to explore between track sessions.

Off the grid, COTA hosts a variety of activities, from track days and driving experiences to karting competitions. Whether you’re piloting a high-performance machine or tackling the circuit in a go-kart, the opportunity to drive on this prestigious track is unforgettable.

With state-of-the-art facilities, thrilling elevation changes, and an unparalleled atmosphere, Circuit of the Americas isn’t just a racetrack—it’s an event, a celebration, and a bucket-list experience for motorsport fans. Whether you’re there to race, watch, or simply soak up the Texan energy, COTA delivers motorsport at its finest.

Location and nearby facilities