Dallas–based architectural practice HKS, Inc. and German designer for racetrack and test facilities Tilke Engineers & Architects will lead the local and international team assembled for the construction of the world–class facility. The 2012-2021 United States Grand Prix will be held at a circuit soon to be built southeast of Austin.
In addition to the 3.4–mile circuit that combines 133ft of elevation change and 20 turns, the Austin facility will include additional visitor attractions such as a driving/riding experience and seminar/banquet building, motorsports driving club, kart track and a large multipurpose fan engagement area.
The circuit combines modern features with details reminiscent of legendary tracks from the 1960s. The surrounding landscape will allow for a maximum elevation change of 133 feet. In addition, the circuit includes a strategic combination of 20 turns, including variations of classic turns from around the world.
Drawing from their collective experience and passion for sports around the world, HKS Sports & Entertainment Group and Tilke Engineers & Architects are part of a dynamic team that will construct the future home of the US’ first purpose–built Formula 1 racetrack. Slated to host its first event in 2012, this much–anticipated Grand Prix facility will be designed to provide a fully–integrated architectural and entertainment experience for both event participants and visitors.
HKS’ global project experience includes Estadio Maracana – Rio de Janeiro, Acapulco’s Mextenis, Torreon Mexico’s Estadio Corona, the English Premier League’s Liverpool Football Stadium and a plethora of United States football, baseball, soccer and collegiate facilities. In addition to their global architecture expertise, HKS has partnered with Dallas/Fort Worth’s professional teams including the Dallas Cowboys, Dallas Stars, Dallas Mavericks and Texas Rangers.
In addition, HKS is credited for the design and architecture of other professional sports team venues, including the Indianapolis Colts, Minnesota Vikings, Washington Redskins, Atlanta Braves, Chicago White Sox and Detroit Tigers.
Tilke is credited for raising the bar in motorsports design with numerous track construction projects, including Bahrain International Circuit, Korean International Circuit, Sepang International Circuit, Shanghai International Circuit, Istanbul Park and YAS Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi. Combining Tilke’s experience in architecture and engineering, the Austin–based, modern–era Grand Prix track is expected to be an exhilarating experience for both drivers and spectators alike.
Several other Austin and Texas–based companies – Rocket Red, 3 Point Partners, Walter P. Moore, Kimley–Horn and Associates, Miro Rivera Architects, Carlson Brigance & Doering, Inc., Terracon Consultants, Inc., Horizon Environmental Services, Inc., Michael E. James and Associates, Inc., Armbrust & Brown, Kaminski Interests, Inc., MBC Consultants, Inc. and Haynes–Eaglin–Waters – have been retained to work on the Formula 1 US project.
The multifunctional facility, hosting the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, is situated on a 970–acre site in southeast Austin along the SH 130 about two miles from Austin Bergstrom International Airport with scenic views of downtown.
Formula 1 racing is the most viewed sport in the world, on a yearly basis, and ranks among the top three most prestigious sporting events, along with the Olympics and Soccer’s FIFA World Cup.
