The layout of Austin's Formula One circuit has been finalised and race promoters Full Throttle productions has revealed the plans of the Hermann Tilke-designed track to the city's Statesman newspaper, which has generally taken a somewhat sceptical line about the race.Tavo Hellmund revealed that the 3.4 mile track will have a 200mph maximum speed, a long back straight, featuring 133 feet of elevation and some corners that resemble to famous F1 tracks. As a matter of fact turns 3-6 are a nod to Maggotts/Becketts at Silverstone, turns 12-15 are a reflection of Hockenheim's stadium, and turns 16-18 are intended to mirror Turn 8 at Istanbul.
However, Hellmund claims that the track won't be only known as a collection of F1 most famous turns, stating that turn 1, which is an uphill hairpin, will be the track's own "signature" corner. Moreover its anticlockwise orientation makes the circuit unique in F1 calendar.
"In the modern era of Grand Prix racing, I think this track layout and topography will be very special. It will have many of the elements of previous 'classic' circuits combined with the benefits of FIA-mandated safety for the competitors and spectators alike. Add in the amenities fans have come to expect, like rare, multiple-turn viewing opportunities for added value, and you have an ideal, world-class venue.
For the competitors, we'll have all the ingredients necessary. You'll see fast turns that require commitment from the drivers and technical turns that will test the engineers from a set-up point of view. We have a good deal of elevation to make it not only scenic but challenging also, and the view of downtown Austin is wonderful as well."
Herman Tilke's US executive Christian Epp reported as well:
"There is land, there is money, there is a Formula One contract. We are now ready to enter the final stage of the ambitious project We have to figure how many buildings and access roads are needed, how in detail to manage the water supply, drainage and power. It's like planning and building a complete new city."
Tilke GmbH already has geologists testing the 900-acre plot and a Tilke delegation is expected to continue working optimizing final details on the plans. The layout will be presented to the FIA in September with construction scheduled to begin in December.
Event promoter Tavo Hellmund told the official F1 website that he believes the Austin venue could stay on the calendar for as long as 40 years.
"I considered Austin as the ultimate place and I went to Bernie with this idea. Austin has developed immensely over the last 15 years - in every aspect - so for me there was no better place to hold the United States Grand Prix. The State of Texas has developed into the 11th biggest global economy and many of the Fortune 500 companies have their headquarters here. And Austin is the capital. He added: "I wanted to make sure that we were the best location for the United States Grand Prix. How you do that is by having the right location and the right connectivity - and the location is something we have been working on for at least a year and a half.
People have been commenting that F1 hasn't stuck in the United States, but that is actually completely inaccurate. F1 was immensely successful from 1960 to 1980 when it was at a permanent road course facility. From 1980 up until 1999 it was always on temporary street circuits and, as wonderful as the IMS (Indianapolis Motor Speedway) is, it was basically an adaptation. It was an IndyCar track that NASCAR was able to have success there.
My philosophy is that you will succeed if you are at the right place at the right time - and for a grand prix in Austin, Texas, I considered it to be the right time. We have a contract for the next 10 years, but if you ask me we could race here for the next 40 years!"
Texas-born McCombs has also been announced as a Primary Investor for the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix™ Project. McCombs has proven success backing American football and basketball teams and in 2005 featured in Forbes Magazine's top 400 American rich list.
Bringing Formula One back to the United States represents the opportunity of a lifetime and one that any city in the world would want. The size and scope of an F1 event is comparable to hosting a Super Bowl and will bring substantial economic benefit to Austin, San Antonio and the entire State of Texas.
We know Tavo has a clear vision for developing Formula One into a major event with year-round opportunities. Over the past few years, he has built a solid business foundation and has assembled a great team - one we are proud to be part of. We are ready to roll-up our sleeves and work alongside Tavo to make this project a huge success."
