The Formula 1 United States Grand Prix returns to Austin, Texas October 23–25, 2026, with an all-new Thursday preview day added on October 22 — the first time COTA has expanded race weekend to four days. Get ready for heart-pounding excitement as the world's top drivers take on the 20 turns at Circuit of The Americas (COTA). Here's your insider guide to making the most of the weekend.

Two formula one cars round the turn in front of fan stands at Austins Circuit of The Americas racetrack
Courtesy of Circuit of The Americas.

Live Music & Food

The world's premier motorsport series intertwines with a lineup of headline concerts and festivities for the entire family. Maroon 5 kicks things off Friday, October 23, Post Malone takes the stage Saturday, October 24, and Alesso closes out the weekend with a post-race show Sunday, October 25 — all at Germania Insurance Amphitheater. Beyond the headliners, expect numerous stages around the track with live music running throughout the weekend.

The COTA Culinary Experience features unique food villages with 30+ restaurants showcasing the best of Texas cuisine. From tacos and barbecue to homemade biscuits and other Austin favorites, race fans can take a food tour through Texas, with each restaurant offering 2-3 menu items for guests.

A New Fourth Day: Grand PrixView Thursday

This year marks the first time COTA has added a fourth day to race weekend. Before the racing gets underway Friday, head out to Circuit of The Americas for the all-new Grand PrixView Thursday, October 22. See on-track action from F1 Academy — the all-female race series showcasing the next generation of motorsports stars — explore fan villages across the property, get first access to the F1 Fan Zone, walk Pit Lane, shop merchandise early, and experience COTALAND before the weekend fills up. Tickets start at just $20 — a solid way to ease into the weekend before the main event.

Formula 1 racecar rounding corner past crowd of cheering fans.
Courtesy of Circuit of The Americas.

Planning Your Weekend

For a full breakdown of ticket types — grounds passes, grandstand seating, single-day options — see our Formula 1 event page or circuitoftheamericas.com. A few things locals know that ticket pages won't tell you:

  • Book hotels now. Rooms near downtown and COTA sell out months out, and rates climb fast as October approaches
  • Skip driving if you can. CapMetro shuttle passes will be available with mulitple pick up locations. Traffic around the track can get heavy and lots fill early. 
  • Arrive early on Sunday. The Grand Prix itself draws the biggest crowds of the weekend; if you're only attending one day, get there well before gates open.
  • Consider a travel package. A Circuit of The Americas Travel Package can bundle tickets, hotel accommodations, and hospitality access if you'd rather not piece the weekend together yourself.

Beyond the Track

COTA sits about 30 minutes from downtown Austin, so don't plan to spend the entire weekend at the circuit. Grab breakfast tacos before you head out Sunday morning, and if you need a break from the crowds, downtown's restaurants and bars are an easy shuttle ride away once the checkered flag drops.