Discussing a new contract to maintain the US Grand Prix for Circuit of the Americas, Cota Chairman Bobby Epstein says he is “optimistic” about the agreement.
This season’s edition is the penultimate race on the current contract, and while racers understand that debate can be finalized before next month’s race, it’s not over yet.
“The conversation is ongoing and I think we’re optimistic,” Epstein said. “There’s little doubt they want to do something, but it’s a pretty good starting point for conversation, as we continue as well. But there was no sense of urgency in any of our purposes.
Epstein said F1 has not been required to make any major changes regarding its next contract, but hospitality options are likely to expand as a result of its long-term commitment.
“I don’t think there really are many big differences for us,” he said. “They’re continuing, so they want to see the expanded paddock club… All clubs this year are sold out. Paddock clubs, trackside, club SI. – The demand for hospitality was incredible.
“So what they want to see is the bigger paddock club and we’re considering creating something very special that we’re hoping to announce along with the contract extension. So that’s not the paddock club that anyone else has right now.
This year’s race will be held on the weekend of October 17th-19th, and demand remains high. Epstein said he could prove to be the best USGP on the circuit, citing the F1 film as a potential driver of greater interest.
“We might get closer (to a new record), and it’s still too early,” he said. “We already know we’re in the top three. We don’t know there’s nothing missing (to beat it), but that demand has been building up between Netflix and the people and people have been receiving checks from the government here.