The Resurgence of Sports Car Racing: A New Era at Circuit of The Americas
Once regarded as a niche pursuit, sports car racing is experiencing a renaissance, capturing the hearts of fans around the globe. The convergence of the Le Mans Daytona hybrid (LMDh) and Le Mans Hypercar (LMH) classes has breathed new life into the sport, drawing record audiences to FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) and IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship events. The proof is in the numbers, with the Rolex 24 at Daytona and Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring setting the stage for a thrilling 2025 season. But perhaps the most intriguing development is the growing significance of the Lone Star Le Mans at Austin’s Circuit of The Americas (COTA).
The Struggle for a U.S. Stronghold
The WEC’s journey in the U.S. has been a rollercoaster since its inception at the Sebring circuit in 2012. It has oscillated between Florida and Texas, grappling with audience engagement and fluctuating broadcast agreements. However, a new chapter is unfolding as COTA embraces the challenge to establish a lasting home for the WEC in Austin. As Andy Soucek, COTA’s VP of Motorsports, puts it, Our goal is to make this one of our ‘majors,’ an event that draws fans from afar, creating a vibrant community of racing enthusiasts.
Amidst the complexities of building a fan base and establishing date equity, there is optimism. The Le Mans Endurance Management and manufacturers are keenly promoting the series both locally and nationally. With IMSA’s growth through the DPi era into the GTP class, the appetite for endurance racing in America is unmistakable.
A Gamble with Potential
The decision to move the race from Sebring to COTA in 2024 was not without risk. The timing, right as the Hypercar category was gaining traction, was bold. Questions loomed: Would attendance hold? How would the heat impact the event, held over Labor Day weekend? Could ticket prices appeal to younger fans and families? Despite these challenges, the LMEM took charge, targeting ambitious goals to solidify COTA’s status as a premier venue, recognizing the U.S. as a vital market.
Andrew Craig, WEC’s North American representative, emphasized,
We respect IMSA, but our aim is to be the marquee event, controlling our environment and fostering a long-term relationship.
A Promising Outcome
The 2024 Lone Star Le Mans attracted 65,089 fans, who witnessed AF Corse’s Ferrari 499P secure victory, despite the sweltering 96-degree heat. For the first time, the event felt like a major attraction in Austin, not overshadowed by local sports. The success was a testament to efforts made by circuit chairman Bobby Epstein to bring the WEC back to COTA after a canceled race in Brazil.
Soucek noted, The WEC has grown to a point where it no longer needs to partner with IMSA; COTA’s status as a top-tier track and ample preparation time made 2024 a success.
The Labor Day weekend slot has its pros and cons, offering a travel opportunity for fans but also testing their endurance against the Texas sun.
Looking Forward: Building on Success
Continuous improvement is the mantra at COTA. Plans are underway to enhance the fan experience in 2025, with more shuttles, shade, and air-conditioned areas to combat the heat. Additionally, a planned amusement park, water park, hotel, and convention center outside the circuit promise to transform COTA into a year-round destination.
As Soucek stated, We’ve learned from last year, and while there’s always room for improvement, fans appreciated the value we offered. Our focus is on bigger marketing and providing an even better experience.
The 2026 WEC calendar release in June is eagerly anticipated, with COTA expected to maintain its place.
The Road Ahead
Negotiations to extend COTA’s contract with the WEC are in progress, with another successful event this September being crucial. Early signs are positive, with ticket sales for the 2025 race on track to surpass last year’s figures.
Soucek’s optimism is palpable: There’s no reason why we shouldn’t be the WEC’s home for a long time. Building a destination for sports car racing requires time and consistency, much like Sebring. We’re committed to making COTA a permanent fixture.
Reflecting on a decade of growth, he adds
