Austin circuit layout revealed

RichardsF1    Formula 1     Hermann Tilke

Recognise some of the corners borrowed from established F1 tracks?

The Hermann Tilke penned layout for Austin’s Grand Prix circuit has been revealed.

Race promoter for the event – set to make its debut in 2012 – Tavo Hellmund did the honours by showing off the track design to the local American Statesman newspaper.

The 3.4-mile long track will reportedly have a 200mph top speed and 133 feet of elevation changes.

Most interesting is the resemblance of many of its corners to those on existing circuits around the world…

And who said imitation was the sincerest form of laziness flattery? The Turns 3 to 5 section is designed to resemble the Becketts / Maggotts complex at Silverstone; Turns 12 to 15 are a tribute to Hockenheim’s stadium section; and Turns 16-18 are simply Istanbul’s Turn 8 in reverse.

“I think drivers and fans should really like it,” Hellmund said as he revealed the design.

Speculation has it that the circuit’s construction could begin as early as December, although Hellmund wouldn’t be drawn on any start-date.

What do you think of the circuit design? Is it yet another dull Tilkedrome, or could we be seeing something different? Post your comments here!

[Original image via Tilke GmbH]