The first purpose-built F1® circuit in the United States, the Circuit of the Americas was built with greatness in mind. With a hard-hitting opening corner and a blend of technical and high-speed racing, there are plenty of challenges for Team Principals to prepare for.
In the middle of the race, Hamilton is in the lead. Verstappen and Norris have just pitted, and it's time to make a strategy call. With the two-stop race inevitable and two compounds to use, it'll take perfect timing and pit strategy to clinch first place. Find a way to take Mercedes to the top step of the podium once again!
Suggested car setup for Circuit of the Americas:
- Low and high-speed cornering are crucial
- Focus on DRS for the two long straights
- Balanced circuit
As you approach the end of the season, Austin is the time to race conservatively; dry weather and rough tarmac punish aggressive driving.
- All suggested strategies for Austin push for two pit stops, and you must be very careful to get away with just one.
- If you see the safety car, use it to mask one of your pit stops, but don’t drive with the expectation it will appear.
- By now, your powertrain components will be feeling the season's stress; save your last pushes for less predictable circuits, like Mexico City and São Paulo.