Formula One is one of the most popular sports in the world with millions of Americans tuning in to races over the years. From the thrill of the cars leaving the starting grid to the chase to reach the finish line, there are few pursuits as exhilarating. However, up against so many other sports in the US, F1 experienced a brief setback in recent times before enjoying a resurgence.
This article will explore the history of Formula 1 in the United States and the fall and subsequent rise of the sport in recent years.
The History of Formula 1 in the United States
Formula 1 has wowed fans in the United States for more than 60 years. It was in Sebring, Florida that the inaugural F1 race took place in 1959 and for much of the time since then, followers have been hooked, enjoying the excitement that raceday brings.
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The US hosted several Grand Prix at Watkins Glen throughout the 60s and 70s though the sport's impact dwindled for much of the 1980s and early 90s. F1 made a significant comeback in 2000 with the establishment of the United States Grand Prix at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The sport found renewed enthusiasm further still with the introduction of the Circuit of the Americas in Austin in Texas, which has been a regular fixture since 2012. Last season, the track played host to a Ferrari triumph as Charles Leclerc finished first following three successive victories between 2021 and 2023 for Max Verstappen.
The Fall of F1
Between 1982 and 1988 there were no Formula 1 races held in the United States due to financial issues in the sport owing to declining attendances at Watkins Glen, There were also disagreements abound between the racing organized and the F1 governing bodies.
The introduction of the new US Grand Prix at the Phoenix street circuit in Arizona saw the return of F1 for three years between 1989 and 1991 but then again throughout the 90s, no more races were held until the return of the sport in Indianapolis at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway at the turn of the Millennium. At a time when other sports were thriving, like the NBA with Michael Jordan now a global superstar, F1 struggled to appeal to the masses.
The F1 Resurgence
In the world today, access to sport has never been so great or convenient and so Formula 1 is reaching new audiences every time drivers take to the track. The resurgence of F1 has been helped by a combination of captivating races, strategic marketing and the success of documentaries and shows like 'Drive to Survive' which featured on Netflix. This type of content is capturing the imagination of fans and others who may not have been into racing originally but are now keen to learn more.
Fan engagement and viewership continues to climb, enhancing the F1 offerings and boosting the overall popularity of the pursuit. There are now Formula 1 events held annually in Austin, Miami and Las Vegas which has further showcased the sport and bolstered its standing.
The Next Race
The 2025 United States Grand Prix will take place at Circuit of The Americas in Austin, Texas on Sunday, October 19. The 5.513 kilometer circuit will see teams competing for supremacy over 56 laps and promises to be an enthralling day of racing. This is now a key venue on the race calendar and will play an important role in the championship.
In recent years, more than one million race fans have tuned into the race, showing that there is still huge appeal for the sport across the nation. When considering the number of pastimes in competition with F1, it will be interesting to see these figures rise as the sport continues its rebrand and growth in the US.
The Most Popular Sports in America
The United States is a country that is famous for its sporting passion and fandom of a host of sports including racing and court games. Many of these pursuits are instantly connected to America in people's are minds and have enjoyed significant global appeal having started out in this part of the world.
American Football, basketball and baseball are all synonymous with the United States with storied teams and star names creating history in annual competitions across the nation. Events like the Super Bowl and NBA Finals attracting massive viewership.
Formula 1 may rank lower in mainstream appeal compared to these sports but it can take inspiration from soccer which also took a while to appeal to fans in the United States before exploding with players like David Beckham, Zlatan Ibrahimovic and even Lionel Messi choosing to play in the MLS.
Overall, F1 has carved out and important, passionate and committed fanbase over in the States and with the championship more exciting than ever, the sport will no doubt continue to appeal to new fans as it enjoys sustained growth around the world.