The Circuit of the Americas officially inaugurated

Officials of the Circuit of the Americas, located near Austin, Texas, ceremoniously inaugurated their track yesterday during an event titled “First Lap Ceremony.” Several drivers, current and former, were present to perform demonstrations.

This was notably the case for Jérôme d’Ambrosio, third driver for the Lotus F1 team. The Belgian driver had the opportunity to drive the R30 on the American track (see the video below). Also present alongside the Etterbeek native were, among others, Mario Andretti, who drove the Lotus 79 with which he was crowned world champion in 1978, and Patrick Dempsey, the famous actor/driver.

This was therefore an opportunity for these three men, as well as other VIPs, to drive on the circuit ahead of time, as the United States Grand Prix will not take place until November 17th.

The drivers were enthusiastic about the design of Austin’s track, Mario Andretti being the first: « It’s everything I expected and even more. The layout is phenomenal. It has everything you look for, it gives you opportunities to overtake and some tight corners. »

D’Ambrosio was also convinced by the American track, which should appeal to his peers: « It’s a very enjoyable track with some great overtaking opportunities, long and fast S-turns, and some high-speed direction changes a bit like Becketts at Silverstone. […] It’s a really good track for a driver and also fantastic for fans because the viewing areas are very well placed; there should be a lot of action. »

The Belgian driver particularly notes that the first corner – a hairpin preceded by an uphill – will be one to watch during the race: « The first corner is quite special and it will be interesting to see in the race when drivers fight for positions. Austin is a great city with a good atmosphere and I think the city will really be in tune with Formula 1 during the Grand Prix week and that’s something we’re all going to enjoy; it’s going to be something really special. »