NASCAR to Use Full 20-Turn, 3.41-mile Layout at Circuit of the Americas for All Three Races in 2021

In 2021, one of the most anticipated races is the one at the Circuit of The Americas. Now, the news has gotten even better, as the drivers will be racing on COTA’s full 3.41-mile layout. The best part is that this is applicable to all NASCAR racing categories when the paddock touches down at Austin for the first time.

Following its inauguration in 2012, it primarily hosted Formula One and MotoGP races. Since then, the IndyCar Series, IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, and FIA World Endurance Championship have raced there. One of the track’s most distinguishable features is a 133-foot climb up the main straight, heading into Turn 1.

“We took a hard look at both the 3.41-mile-long course and the newly reconfigured 2.2-mile short course,” Speedway Motorsports CEO Marcus Smith said.

“There’s no doubt the long course will be the most entertaining for the fans. Every NASCAR driver will be challenged by the same 20-turn, counterclockwise circuit designed for Formula One racers.”

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How will the NASCAR race weekend at COTA play out?

The weekend commences on May 21st with practice for all 3 categories. On Saturday, the Camping World Truck Series and Xfinity Series will race at the track for the first time. Finally, the Cup Series ends the inaugural NASCAR race weekend on May 23rd.

However, to ensure the smooth running of the event, Speedway Motorsports has to make a few changes. Only then will it be able to accommodate all three NASCAR national series at once.

These include the installation of rumble strips from the Charlotte Roval to select corners. The idea is to prevent drivers from maliciously abusing the track’s asphalt runoffs, in the event that they run wide.

Additionally, in areas where there is a chance of a high-speed accident, crews will place tire packs. Other changes include extending the pit road wall, and extra caution lights, and timing/scoring loops.

Once the track authorities feel that they are adequately prepared, the Cup, Xfinity, and Truck paddocks can get down to business.

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