The Circuit of The Americas (COTA) is a world-class racing facility located in Austin, Texas, United States. The track map of COTA is a 3.427-mile (5.515 km) long circuit that features 20 turns, including a unique combination of fast sweepers, slow hairpins, and a steep elevation change. The track is designed to challenge drivers and provide an exciting spectator experience.
Track Layout and Features
The COTA track map can be divided into several distinct sections, each with its own unique characteristics. The track begins with a fast straightaway, followed by a series of sweeping turns that allow drivers to reach high speeds. The first turn, a sharp right-hander, is a key braking point and a common spot for overtaking. The track then winds its way through a series of slow and fast corners, including a hairpin turn at turn 11 and a high-speed sweeper at turn 16.
Turn-by-Turn Analysis
A closer look at the track map reveals the intricacies of each turn and the challenges they pose to drivers. Turn 1, for example, is a 90-degree right-hander that requires drivers to brake heavily from over 180 mph (290 km/h). Turn 5, on the other hand, is a high-speed kink that can be taken flat-out, but requires precise control to maintain speed. The track’s elevation change, which includes a steep hill at turn 9, adds an extra layer of complexity to the driving experience.
| Turn Number | Turn Type | Speed (mph) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Right-hander | 60 |
| 5 | High-speed kink | 180 |
| 11 | Hairpin | 40 |
| 16 | High-speed sweeper | 160 |
Technical Specifications
The COTA track map is designed to meet the highest standards of safety and performance. The track features a wide racing surface, with a minimum width of 40 feet (12 meters), and a state-of-the-art drainage system to ensure safe racing conditions in all weather. The track’s pit lane is designed to accommodate 30 cars, with a minimum pit box width of 20 feet (6 meters).
Track Records
The COTA track map has hosted numerous racing events, including Formula 1, IndyCar, and sports car races. The track record for the fastest lap is held by Charles Leclerc, who set a time of 1:36.169 in his Ferrari during the 2019 United States Grand Prix. The track has also hosted several record-breaking performances, including the fastest average speed in a Formula 1 race, set by Sebastian Vettel in 2013.
- Fastest lap: 1:36.169 (Charles Leclerc, 2019)
- Fastest average speed: 202.358 mph (Sebastian Vettel, 2013)
- Most wins: 3 (Lewis Hamilton, 2012-2014)
What is the length of the COTA track?
+The COTA track is 3.427 miles (5.515 km) long.
How many turns are there on the COTA track?
+There are 20 turns on the COTA track.
What is the fastest lap time recorded at COTA?
+The fastest lap time recorded at COTA is 1:36.169, set by Charles Leclerc in 2019.
