The US Grand Prix promoter expects to extend the contract.

      Negotiations to extend the contract to host the United States Grand Prix at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA) are underway, progress is being made, and, according to Bobby Epstein, president of the Texas circuit, he is fairly optimistic.

      COTA's contract with Formula 1 doesn't expire until next year, but, according to Racer, talks could be successfully concluded before the Austin race scheduled for October 19.

      "The negotiations are ongoing, and I think we have reason to be optimistic," Epstein said. "I have little doubt that Formula 1 wants the partnership to continue, and we do too. That's already a good starting point for dialogue. Neither side has any reason to rush, and we'll agree on everything in due course.

      I don't think the new agreement will require any major changes. I assume Formula 1 would like to see us expand the Paddock Club — this year all guest-area seats are already sold out. Demand for them is incredibly high.

      Overall, I think they'd like the Paddock Club to be bigger, and we're going to create something truly special. I hope we'll be able to talk about it when we announce the contract extension. And our Paddock Club won't be like any other; it's what we're planning and negotiating, and those plans inspire both sides."

      Epstein suggests that this year's United States Grand Prix will draw a record crowd, aided in part by the success of the film F1 The Movie: "It's still early, but we could approach a new attendance record. I just know that, judging by ticket sales, we're already in the top three..."

      There are now three races in the United States on the world championship calendar, but it is the Austin round that is most popular with American fans.