Formula One returns to the United States – Austin to host races from 2012

Some fantastic news for Formula One fans all around the world – the most watched sport in the world is coming back to the United States – and will take place on a new track in Austin!

In the past, U.S. F1 races had been held in Watkins Glen, Indianapolis, Long Beach, Las Vegas, Detroit, Dallas and Phoenix. Sadly, after the 2007 season, it looked like the United States would be without a race for years to come.

Thankfully, a major US investor has committed to constructing a brand new venue, and secured a ten year agreement to host the event in Austin. The new track will be built by Full Throttle Productions, who are now the promoter of the United States Grand Prix.

City of Austin Mayor Lee Leffingwell went on record to say “The City of Austin will be proud to host this magnificent event and I look forward to welcoming the participants and fans of Formula One to our City.”

Austin already has a great amount of experience hosting large events, and I’m sure the city will be able to put on a fantastic show when thousands of F1 fans show up for a weekend of racing. Congratulations to Austin – the Gadling team spent some time in your magnificent city earlier this month, and I for one will gladly return to enjoy the Formula One race at your new track.