13/04/2011
NEWS STORY
 |
At a special press conference yesterday, the United States Grand Prix group responsible for bringing F1 back to the United States in 2012, officially named its Austin facility, Circuit of the Americas.
"We are building a destination for entertainment and business, not simply a race track, and this brand reflects that entire idea," said Tavo Hellmund, Managing Partner of Full Throttle Productions, L.P. and Chairman of Formula 1 United States Grand Prix.
"Racing days will account for a total of about 30 days a year, but great performances and winning ideas will be inspired by this brand every day."
The circuit's new logo consists of the logo-typed name ornamented with red and grey streamers to evoke feelings of performance, competition and victory.
"One of the most inviting aspects of the name is the word 'Americas'," said Red McCombs, Founding Partner of the facility. "It reflects Austin's ideal location at the crossroads of North America from north to south, east to west. Also, it speaks to our state as a centre of commerce and cultural exchange in this hemisphere. I look forward to meeting many fans and visitors who will be coming from every country."
The Circuit of the Americas master plan features a variety of permanent structures designed for business, education, entertainment and race use. The paddock building on race weekends, for example, will also serve as a 500-person banquet hall for events such as private or corporate dinners and non-profit fundraising galas.
The main grandstand plan includes luxury suites that can be used for business entertaining; and with a capacity of nearly 750 people and a commercial kitchen and cafe, the media and conference centre will host business conferences, seminars and receptions. During race weekends, it will convert into an international media centre, accommodating the world's travelling press.
The 5,400 square foot Medical Building is being built for year round use as a training facility for area emergency care professionals and medical school students. During races, it will serve as a trauma care location for driver-athletes who may be injured in competition.
Fourteen suites, each 3,600 square feet with elevators and kitchens, will be outfitted with the latest A/V gear and high-speed web connections to serve as business meeting suites for up to 75 people each.
During race weekends, teams and sponsors will use the suites for meetings and hospitality. Live music entertainment with world-class performers will be a staple at Circuit of the Americas during race and non-race weekends. The Grand Plaza is designed as an open stage area where performers can entertain thousands of people in a panoramic setting. Permanent concessions, restrooms and other amenities will make the experience comfortable and memorable.
To check out the latest pictures from Austin as work on the site continues, click here