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With the United States Grand Prix taking place from October 18 to 20, FanF1 looks back at the most memorable moments from previous editions.
The United States Grand Prix has come a long way in motorsport history, moving from one iconic venue to another. It began at Sebring International Raceway in the 1960s, then moved to the streets of Long Beach and Detroit, before finally finding a permanent home at the Circuit of the Americas, purpose-built for the event in Austin in 2012. COTA's modern layout, dotted with corners reminiscent of classic European circuits, quickly won over drivers and fans alike, delivering thrilling races in a stunning setting. Here's a look back at some of the most memorable editions of this legendary event.
1959: The first edition
The first United States Grand Prix was held in Sebring, Florida, as the ninth and final round of the 1959 season. Jack Brabham took the win in his Cooper-Climax, a victory that secured his first world championship title. He went on to win two more titles, the last in 1966. Brabham's teammate, Bruce McLaren, won his first F1 victory here, becoming the youngest Grand Prix winner, a record that stood until Fernando Alonso broke it at the 2003 Hungarian Grand Prix.
1990: a legendary battle between Ayrton Senna and Jean Alesi
The first race of the 1990 season took place in Phoenix. Starting in fourth position, Frenchman Jean Alesi took the lead in his Tyrrell and quickly found himself engaged in a fierce duel with Ayrton Senna. After a series of intense overtakes, Senna took the lead and crossed the finish line eight seconds ahead of Alesi. This performance revealed Alesi as a rising star and left a lasting memory of fierce rivalry on the American street circuit.
2001: a tribute to the victims of September 11
Three weeks after the September 11 attacks, the United States Grand Prix became a platform for solidarity. Jordanian Jarno Trulli raced with an American flag and the slogan “Peace, not war” on his car's air intake, while Ferrari painted their car noses black as a sign of respect. A pre-race ceremony paid tribute to American drivers, with three of the six drivers who had participated in the very first United States Grand Prix at Sebring in 1959 in attendance: Phil Hill, Rodger Ward, and Bob Said.
2005: A lunar Grand Prix
The 2005 race at Indianapolis Motor Speedway went down in history for having only six cars on the starting grid. A puncture for Ralf Schumacher during Friday's practice, followed by a similar failure for his teammate Ricardo Zonta, raised serious concerns about tire safety. Michelin concluded that its tires would not last the distance on the banked track, and despite a last-minute delivery of replacement tires, the seven Michelin-equipped teams withdrew after the formation lap. Only Ferrari, Jordan, and Minardi took the start. Rubens Barrichello took the lead after a pit stop on lap 27, but Michael Schumacher retook the lead on lap 49 to claim his only victory of the season. Michelin subsequently refunded spectators and offered 20,000 free tickets to the 2006 race to make up for the debacle.
2018: Kimi Räikkönen returns to winning ways
The 2018 United States Grand Prix marked the return of Kimi Räikkönen, who claimed his first victory since 2013 at the wheel of a Ferrari. Starting in second position, he got off to an excellent start, overtaking championship leader Lewis Hamilton and taking the lead early in the race. Over the course of 56 laps, Räikkönen combined pure speed with impeccable tire management, while Ferrari's refueling strategy allowed him to stay in the lead. This victory gave Scuderia its first win of the season and highlighted Räikkönen's talent and unwavering determination.
