Formula 1 United States Grand Prix 2025: Full schedule, how to watch, and key details for sprint weekend in Austin

The 2025 United States Grand Prix takes place at the famous Circuit of the Americas (COTA) in Austin, Texas, from October 17 to 19. This year’s event features a thrilling sprint weekend format, where the sprint race and traditional qualifying both happen on Saturday, setting the stage for Sunday’s full Grand Prix.

With a sprint weekend format adding extra intensity, fans can expect non-stop action shaping the championship fight as Max Verstappen, Oscar Piastri, and Lando Norris battle for critical points in a crowded Drivers’ Championship race.

Schedule and start times (Local Austin Time)

• Friday, October 17
  
• Free Practice 1 (FP1): 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
  
• Sprint Qualifying: 4:30 - 5:14
  
• Saturday, October 18
  
• Sprint Race (19 laps): 12:00 PM - 12:30 PM
  
• Qualifying: 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
  
• Sunday, October 19
  
• Main Race: 2:00 PM
  

Key drivers and championship standings

Championship leader Oscar Piastri (McLaren) heads into Austin with a 22-point lead over teammate Lando Norris. Max Verstappen (Red Bull) trails Piastri by 63 points but has been in excellent form recently with two wins in the last three races. This weekend’s results could shift the drivers’ title battle significantly.

Weather outlook

Expect warm and dry conditions. The sprint race will see temperatures around 30°C with cloudy skies, while qualifying may be hotter at approximately 34°C with decreasing humidity.

Where to watch

• ESPN and ESPN2: Live TV coverage of all sessions, including practice, qualifying, sprint race, and main race.
  
• ESPN App and ESPN3: Streaming options for those on mobile devices or smart TVs.
  
• ABC (ESPN on ABC): Broadcast of the main Grand Prix race on Sunday.
  
• Radio: ESPN Radio and various sports radio stations provide live audio coverage.

The 5.513 km track opened in 2012 and is known for its challenging elevation changes, technical corners inspired by European tracks, and a thrilling uphill Turn 1. It is a fan-favorite venue promising plenty of overtaking and strategic racing.

The United States Grand Prix weekend is crucial in the intense 2025 championship battle. With sprint and qualifying on the same day, expect high drama on Saturday, setting the tone for Sunday’s mega race. Fans worldwide should tune in for world-class racing and potential shifts in the drivers’ championship leaderboard.