Formula 1 goes country: Everything to watch for at COTA

Daniel Ricciardo and Max Verstappen in 2018.

It’s race weekend in Austin, Texas, and many American fans are celebrating the fact that they don’t have to wake up at the crack of dawn to catch the race.

Personally, I was pleasantly surprised to see that I can tune into the qualifying session at 2 p.m. on Saturday and then the race at 12 p.m. on Sunday. The Circuit of the Americas — or COTA — has been on the Formula One calendar since its debut in November 2012. In my opinion, it’s one of the smart

est ways F1 has leaned into a major cultural staple of American life.

Drivers wearing cowboy boots and hats is a sure sign that the international sport’s officials care deeply about their American audience. From themed intros to Texas barbecue in the paddock, COTA weekends have become a blend of motorsport tradition and Southern charm.

So, in honor of the Austin Grand Prix, here are a few can’t-miss moments from past COTA Formula One weekends:

1. Cowboy Ricciardo

   Fans will go crazy over Max Verstappen and Daniel Ricciardo (former Red Bull teammates) content a

   ny day. But Ricciardo in cowboy boots and a cowboy hat alongside Verstappen in matching Texas uniforms? Instant internet gold. Edits, memes and GIFs from that moment still flood the timeline every race week in Austin. Ricciardo’s personality fits the Austin energy perfectly — playful, confident and just the right amount of chaotic.

2. Shaq’s Grand Entrance

   The 2021 podium celebration will go down in history for one reason: Shaquille O’Neal driving onto the track in a custom “Shaqmobile.” Acting as the trophy presenter, the basketball legend towered over Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton as he handed out the hardware. It was peak COTA — over the top, uniquely American and completely unforgettable.

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4. Kimi’s Comeback Win

   Before his retirement, Kimi Räikkönen gave fans one final taste of greatness with his 2018 victory at COTA — his first win in 113 races. The crowd erupted when he crossed the line ahead of Verstappen and Hamilton, marking one of the most emotional moments in the Finn’s career and a highlight for longtime Ferrari fans.

   
   

In case you were curious, here’s some things to look out for this weekend:

1. New Visa Cash App Racing Bulls (VCARB) kits

   The team just unveiled their special edition uniforms for the COTA weekend. Instead of leaning into the traditional red, white and blue palette they already wear, they’ve gone full Texas — black and burnt orange tones with a western flair. Legend has it fans are still trying to figure out what the shapes on the design represent. See for yourself here.

   
   

   

   
   

2. An overflow of “Russonelli” content

   Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One recently announced the return of its 2025 lineup, George Russell and Kimi Antonelli, for the 2026 season. With an unpredictable rookie year for Antonelli, it’ll be interesting to see how the team addresses his progress and how they spotlight the pair throughout the weekend. Expect interviews, behind-the-scenes clips and plenty of social media buzz around the duo.

   
   

3. The Lone Star Driver Parade

   The last time Formula One landed in America, fans were treated to an unforgettable driver parade featuring teams cruising around in LEGO cars. If that’s any indication, the COTA team is bound to deliver another creative spectacle that shows off just how iconic — and entertaining — the U.S. stop on the calendar can be.

   
   

I really thought about spending the weekend in Texas for COTA since I’ve never been, but I’ve resorted to tuning into this weekend’s drama via my living room television. As the season is nearing the end, it’ll be interesting to see how the results will impact the team’s and driver’s road to the championship.