The Circuit of The Americas in Austin,m, Texas has announced Historic Grand Prix as the first supporting event for the inaugural Formula 1 United States Grand Prix at the new track, Nov. 16-18. The Historic Grand Prix organization is comprised of more than 50 owner-drivers of authentic, vintage F1 cars from the FIA's 3-liter era that ran from 1966 until being supplanted by smaller-displacement turbo-engined cars in the 1980s. The focus of the organization is to preserve the historically correct presentation and on-track performance of the cars.
“The cars of Historic Grand Prix encompass Formula 1's 'golden era' of the late 1960s, 1970s and early 1980s, when the dramatic on-track action and distinctive personalities captured the imagination of a fast-growing, worldwide audience,” said James King, director of Historic Grand Prix. “HGP honors the brave drivers of these cars and the innovative designers and fabricators who crafted them without the aid of computers or wind tunnels by showcasing the authentic, original cars in an exciting and colorful race at the Circuit of The Americas.”
HGP gives spectators the opportunity to see these classic racing cars up close and immerse themselves in the history of F1. Some of the cars' original mechanics continue to prepare and maintain these unique vehicles, while the drivers take pride in honoring the original pilots of these iconic cars. HGP currently races all over North America at circuits such as Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in Quebec, Canada, and Watkins Glen International.
“Historic Grand Prix is a great compliment to the USGP as it allows our fans to see the technical and innovative progression of Formula 1 racing cars,” said COTA executive vp Bruce Knox. “Many of the HGP cars are legendary and include Mario Andretti's Lotus 79 that won the 1978 World Driving Championship, Niki Lauda's 1976 Ferrari 312 T2 that finished second in 1976 and was part of his 1977 World Championship, and Gilles Villeneuve's 1980 Ferrari 312 T5. Historic Grand Prix is a series that was widely requested by our customers and we are pleased that it will be included as a USGP support race.”
"Having the rolling museum of Historic Grand Prix together with the modern F1 cars will thrill new and old fans alike,” said HiGP driver Bud Moeller. “F1 back in the United States again is what we've all been hoping for, and driving a new track is a great equalizer. I'm really looking forward to it!"
More information on the HGP organization and participating drivers can be found at www.historicgrandprix.com.
USGP tickets are on sale now at www.cotausgp.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000.