Formula 1: Everything you need to know about the 2024 United States Grand Prix

The 2024 United States Grand Prix, the 19th round of the Formula 1 season, promises to be one of the most thrilling races of the year. Scheduled for October 20 at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, this event attracts fans from around the world with its intense competition and the added excitement of the sprint race format.

Where to watch the 2024 US Grand Prix

Brazilian fans can follow the race live on several platforms. Band will broadcast the race on free-to-air television, with additional coverage available on Bandsports, Bandplay, and F1TV Pro. Fans can also watch the practice sessions and the sprint race on the same platforms, ensuring full coverage of the event.

Weekend schedule

The US Grand Prix weekend is packed with action, and fans will be able to follow every moment of this crucial stage in the championship. Here’s the full schedule:

• Friday, October 18:

  • Free Practice 1: 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM (Brasília time)
  • Sprint Qualifying: 6:30 PM to 7:14 PM

• Saturday, October 19:

  • Sprint Race: 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM
  • GP Qualifying: 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM

• Sunday, October 20:

  • United States Grand Prix: 4:00 PM (live on Band)

The sprint race format adds extra excitement to the weekend, giving drivers the opportunity to score additional points and improve their starting positions for the main race.

The starting grid and race favorites

The US Grand Prix already has its favorites, with Max Verstappen from Red Bull once again dominating the season. Verstappen leads the championship by a comfortable margin, but the battle is far from over. Lando Norris from McLaren has emerged as a strong contender, especially after winning the Singapore Grand Prix in September, putting pressure on the Dutch driver.

In the Constructors’ Championship, McLaren has overtaken Red Bull, leading the competition with 516 points, while the Austrian team follows with 475. This makes the Austin race even more crucial for both teams as they fight for the title.

Circuit of the Americas: Challenges and features

The Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, is one of the most challenging tracks on the calendar. The 5.513-kilometer circuit features 20 corners and a mix of long straights and winding sections that test the drivers’ technical skills. The steep uphill climb into Turn 1 is a critical point, where many overtakes and close battles occur.

The track is known for delivering exciting races, with frequent changes in race leadership and action-packed braking zones. With dry weather expected, drivers will be able to push their cars to the limit.

Team expectations

Beyond the battle between Red Bull and McLaren, other teams are also aiming for strong results. Ferrari, with Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz, is looking to bounce back after some inconsistent performances this season. Mercedes, led by Lewis Hamilton and George Russell, is hoping to recover from a difficult year marked by fluctuating car performance.

Aston Martin, with Felipe Drugovich set to take part in the Mexican GP’s practice session, will also be a focal point for fans as the Brazilian driver prepares for a potential future in F1.

The sprint race and its implications

The sprint race format, which will be used this weekend, brings a new dynamic to the US Grand Prix. The short race on Saturday sets part of the grid for the main race and awards important points. This format adds more action for fans, who get to see competitive racing on two consecutive days.

The sprint race presents a great opportunity for drivers outside the top five in the championship to earn points and improve their starting positions for Sunday’s race. However, the sprint also comes with risks, as any mistake can compromise their starting position in the main race.

The significance of the US Grand Prix in the season

With the drivers’ championship heading into the final stretch, the US Grand Prix is crucial for the ambitions of all teams and drivers. Although Verstappen holds a significant lead, McLaren has shown impressive form in recent races, and Norris is determined to finish the season with more victories.

This race marks the beginning of a three-race streak in the Americas, with the Mexican GP following the next week and the Brazilian GP in Interlagos at the start of November. This “Americas tour” could be decisive in the battle for the Constructors’ Championship and in cementing Verstappen’s dominance in the Drivers’ Championship.

Chronology of key events at the US GP

• Friday, October 18:

  • 2:30 PM: Free Practice 1
  • 6:30 PM: Sprint Qualifying

• Saturday, October 19:

  • 3:00 PM: Sprint Race
  • 7:00 PM: GP Qualifying

• Sunday, October 20:

  • 4:00 PM: United States Grand Prix

Economic and cultural impact of the US Grand Prix

The United States Grand Prix is not just a major sporting event, but it also has a significant economic and cultural impact. Austin transforms during the race weekend, with thousands of fans traveling from around the world to attend the event. This influx of visitors provides a substantial boost to the local economy, benefiting hotels, restaurants, and tourism-related businesses.

Culturally, the US Grand Prix reinforces the growing popularity of Formula 1 in the United States, a market traditionally dominated by NASCAR and IndyCar. With the success of the Netflix series “Drive to Survive,” F1 has attracted a new generation of American fans, and events like the Austin GP help solidify that fan base.

Final thoughts

The 2024 United States Grand Prix will be a key event in the season, both for drivers and teams. With the Constructors’ Championship still open and drivers like Norris and Verstappen in top form, fans can expect an exhilarating race at the Circuit of the Americas. Be prepared for a spectacle of speed, strategy, and skill this Sunday, October 20.