US Grand Prix 2026 Tickets
Circuit of the Americas, Austin, Oct 23—25, 2026, Formula 1 (2026)
£1419.00
Out of stock
Quick Background & Why It’s Special
COTA opened in 2012 and immediately hosted the U.S. Grand Prix — returning Formula 1 to the United States after a gap since 2007.
The track is designed by Hermann Tilke (with American firm HKS) — it features a dramatic uphill run into Turn 1, flowing high-speed sweeps (Turns 3–6), and a “stadium-style” section (Turns 12–15) for superb spectator views.
Off the track, Austin offers vibrant culture, nightlife, music and food — making the Grand Prix weekend as much about lifestyle and city vibe as racing.
COTA sits on roughly 1,500 acres just outside downtown Austin.
Location & Getting There
🚗 Driving / Parking
The circuit lies ~15 miles (≈ 24 km) southeast of downtown Austin.
If you drive, you must pre-book a parking pass — only those with valid passes may enter the on-site parking lots.
There are multiple parking lots (Lots A, C–H, L, N, R, S, etc.), access via roads such as Elroy Road or toll-road TX-130 (depending on your direction) to reach proper entrance.
Traffic on race weekend can be heavy — many guide services recommend leaving plenty of extra travel time.
🚌 Shuttle, Public Transport & Ride-Share Options
If you prefer not to drive, there are official shuttle services from downtown Austin (notably from Waterloo Park) and other pick-up points (e.g., Travis County Expo Center).
Shuttles run regularly throughout the day, often using dedicated bus lanes for faster access.
Rideshare (Uber / Lyft) and taxis are valid alternatives — though after the race, demand surges and wait times or surge pricing are common.
✈️ From Airport or Out-of-Town
If you fly to Austin (e.g., via Austin-Bergstrom International Airport), you can rent a car or ride-share. Many rental companies operate from the airport.
Rideshare fares from downtown or airport to COTA before traffic may cost moderately; post-race prices often spike, and traffic/congestion must be expected.
What to Expect: The Experience of USGP Weekend
Circuit layout & racing excitement: Expect a mix of high-speed sweeps, heavy braking zones (Turn 1 is a classic), and a dramatic stadium-style section that offers thrilling overtakes and great spectator visibility.
Festival atmosphere: The event isn’t just about the race — COTA weekends combine motorsport with music, live-event entertainment, local food & drink, and a big fan vibe.
Food & amenities: Inside COTA there are various food stalls, local food-truck style offerings, as well as bars and drink options. Hydration stations are available — it’s cashless, so cards are used for all purchases.
Comfort & logistics: The venue spans hills and walking paths — comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and weather-appropriate gear are strongly recommended.
✅ Tips & Practical Advice for Fans
Tip | Why / What to Watch Out For |
|---|---|
Book parking or shuttle passes early | Parking fills fast and without a pass you may be turned away. Shuttle passes often sell out too. |
Arrive early | Traffic, security checks, long walk to gates — early arrival avoids stress. |
Use shuttle or rideshare when possible | Avoid parking chaos and post-race congestion by using official shuttles or rideshare. |
Wear comfortable shoes & be ready to walk | The site covers large grounds; many grandstands and amenities require walking. |
Bring ID & digital tickets (app) | Tickets are mobile-only; ensure your phone/app works. |
Plan for weather | Texas in October can still be warm/humid — bring water, sun protection. |
Consider off-site parking + shuttle or ride combo | Some off-site lots/parks are cheaper and easier for leaving fast after the race. |
Stay downtown or near transit if flying in | Helps avoid long drives and allows easy shuttle/rideshare access. |
📅 What’s New for 2026 & What to Watch Out For
The 2026 US Grand Prix is scheduled for October 23–25, 2026.
As always, ticketing is digital/mobile-only (except certain passes like parking or 3-day grounds wristbands) — so no paper tickets.
With growing attendance and high demand, parking, shuttle passes, and good-quality grandstand seats are likely to sell out early.
Expect heavy vehicle and pedestrian traffic, especially after the race — many fans advise staying a little later to avoid gridlock.
🎉 Why the US Grand Prix at COTA Is Worth It
A modern, well-designed circuit that delivers top-class racing action — from steep climbs to fast flowing turns and overtaking opportunities.
Austin brings a unique blend of motorsport + music + culture + nightlife — making the trip more than just for the race.
Good access options: car, shuttle, rideshare — all workable depending on your preferences.
Memorable fan experience: live events, enthusiastic crowd, American-style race-weekend atmosphere, variety on and off track.
Ticket Types & What’s Included at COTA
General Admission (Grounds Pass)
What it is: A 3-day “grounds pass” — open access to general viewing/standing areas around the circuit (grass banks, public viewing zones, etc.).
Inclusions:
Access to F1 weekend sessions (practice, qualifying, race) from general viewing areas.
Ability to move around the circuit — choose vantage points, roam between zones.
Access to fan zones, food & drink stalls, large screens showing race coverage, fan shops.
Concerts and off-track entertainment (many Grand Prix weekends at COTA feature music concerts and festival-style events).
Best for: Fans on a budget, those who enjoy roaming around, or groups/families that don’t need reserved seating.
Grandstand Seats & “F1 Live / Reserved Seat” Packages
COTA offers several grandstand options around the track — reserved seating with views of particular corners, straights or spectator-friendly sections. Many of these include 3-day access, reserved seat on a grandstand, and full access to general admission areas too.
Here’s a breakdown of the ones you listed (and how they tend to be sold/marketed):
Grandstand – Turn 19 + COTA Tower Access
The “Turn 19” grandstand is in the final sector of the circuit, covering Turns 18, 19, 20 — a good vantage for the last laps and the finish.
Ticket features: 3-day ticket, reserved seat (tip-up seats), partially covered upper rows for some tickets, TV-screen visibility, access to general fan zones, food & drink, fan shops.
COTA Tower Access: Some ticket packages may include access to the iconic COTA Tower (though this often is part of add-ons or hospitality packages rather than standard grandstand seats).
“F1 Live – Turn 12”
This package gives reserved seats in the mid-rows of the grandstand at Turn 12 (end of the long straight).
Includes a hospitality-style perk: a Thursday (pre-event) hospitality evening — typically a track walk, show cars, complimentary food & drinks, guest appearances (pit-lane walk, photo with trophy, track tour, etc.) plus full three-day access.
“F1 Live – Turn 15”
Reserved seating at Turn 15 grandstand (stadium section, several corners) with same 3-day ticket access.
Hospitality perks similar to “F1 Live – Turn 12”: pre-event evening access, VIP extras (trophy photo, pit lane walk, fan zone, food & drinks, etc.)
“F1 Live – Turn 4”
Reserved, covered seating in the Turn 4 grandstand (cars navigate a fast series of corners and quick turns — great for action and overtaking view).
Package generally includes 3-day access, seat, TV screen, plus optional hospitality add-ons depending on the version (for example via “F1 Experiences Live”).
General Grandstand Features (all reserved seats):
Tip-up seats or seats with backrest; many with cupholders.
Large video screens to follow the action around the circuit, not just where you’re sitting.
Full 3-day access (practice, qualifying, race) with general admission access included.
Easy access to concessions, merchandise, restrooms, fan zones, and shuttle or parking (depending on ticket/parking pass).
Hospitality – Champions Club
For fans wanting the full premium experience, the “Champions Club” at COTA offers elevated hospitality + trackside views.
What’s included:
Reserved grandstand-style seating (often trackside, with pit-lane / start-finish / main straight views) plus access to a climate-controlled hospitality venue (terrace / lounge).
Access to exclusive hospitality amenities: food & drink, open bar, lounge seating, often included with tickets — making for a comfortable and premium race-day experience.
Additional perks depending on package version: some may include “grid walk”, “paddock access / tour”, possibly “trophy photos / driver appearances / insider events” (with high-tier hospitality or F1 Experiences add-ons).
Full 3-day access, general admission access around circuit, merchandise and food/drink.
Notes & What to Check Before Booking
Ticket inclusions and pricing can change — COTA and ticket sellers often update categories, seat maps, hospitality inclusions closer to the event. Always confirm at time of purchase.
Digital tickets: Most reserved-seat / grandstand tickets are delivered electronically (via app).
General Admission vs Reserved Seats: GA gives flexibility but no guaranteed seat — bring a chair or blanket if you plan to sit (though there are grassy / general viewing areas).
Hospitality / “F1 Live” upgrades: These are often limited, sell out early, and may come with extra perks — make sure to check exactly what’s included (e.g., pit-lane walk, track tour, hospitality lounge, meals, drinks).
Parking / Shuttle / Access passes: Some tickets (especially GA) may require separate parking or shuttle passes; check when buying.
Seat comfort & coverage: Some grandstands are covered or have upper rows sheltered, while others are uncovered — pick according to weather expectations and comfort preferences.