As the Formula 1 circus rolls into Austin, Texas, anticipation is at an all-time high for the upcoming United States Grand Prix weekend. Racing at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA) always brings a unique blend of American flair and racing spectacle, and this year promises even more excitement, thanks to the inclusion of a Sprint race alongside the traditional Grand Prix. Whether you’re new to the sport or a seasoned fan, the upcoming sessions provide plenty of action and drama to enjoy.
This weekend marks one of the six Sprint weekends on the 2024 F1 calendar, meaning drivers and teams will face a demanding schedule, with key sessions taking place at unusual times. The single free practice on Friday is more critical than ever; teams must quickly dial in their setup, as qualifying for Sunday’s race follows soon after. Any mistake made could haunt them all weekend, making every lap count even more than usual.
For those eager to catch every bit of on-track action, understanding the schedule is essential. The Austin weekend kicks off with Free Practice at 12:30 PM local time on Friday, followed by Grand Prix Qualifying at 5:00 PM. Saturday is dominated by Sprint events — Sprint Shootout qualifying at 12:30 PM and the high-stakes Sprint Race at 5:00 PM. The Grand Prix itself gets underway on Sunday at 2:00 PM. All times are local (CDT), so be sure to check your timezone if watching from abroad.
If you want to watch the sessions live, several broadcasters will provide comprehensive coverage. In Hungary, viewers can tune in to M4 Sport’s dedicated broadcasts, while international fans have options including Sky Sports F1 in the UK, ESPN in the USA, and F1 TV Pro for those who prefer streaming. Each session, from practice to the final podium, will be broadcast live, ensuring fans won’t miss a second of the drama.
The fast, flowing layout of COTA always provides a stern test of car balance and driver skill. Key features include the rapid left-right sequence through the Esses, the challenging uphill braking into Turn 1, and the long back straight that offers a prime overtaking location. With recent resurfacing and the ever-present Texas wind gusts, grip levels are expected to change rapidly throughout the weekend, keeping teams on their toes.
Beyond the racing, Austin is set to captivate with its trademark hospitality. The city’s vibrant atmosphere, live music, and energetic fans create one of the most enjoyable weekends of the year for both paddock insiders and spectators. Unique American touches, from classic car parades to fan festivals and barbecue cookouts, add a special ambiance that’s hard to find elsewhere on the calendar.
Of particular interest for Hungarian fans will be how long-standing rivals like Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton approach their championship campaigns. With Red Bull Racing returning as favourites after recent dominant performances, Mercedes and Ferrari will be eager to challenge on a circuit that typically rewards power and precision. Ádám Sipos, our on-site expert, shares that several teams are bringing crucial updates specific for the COTA track characteristics, hoping to spring a surprise in the Sprint format.
As the countdown ticks ever closer to lights out in Austin, Formula 1 fans are guaranteed a weekend packed with action, unpredictability, and the unmistakable character of the USA. Make sure to set your reminders, gather your fellow fans, and immerse yourself in what promises to be one of the most exciting weekends of the season!
