Janice R. Andrews
The 2024 United States Grand Prix in Austin is generating unexpected buzz, with race promoter Bobby Epstein revealing a surprising catalyst for surging ticket sales: Max Verstappen’s recent inability to secure victories.
Following his dominant 2023 season, where he claimed 19 wins out of 22 races, Verstappen’s current winless streak has injected fresh excitement into the championship. Despite leading Lando Norris by 52 points, the Dutch driver hasn’t tasted victory since the Spanish Grand Prix in June. Epstein noted, “Ticket sales skyrocketed when Max’s winning streak ended and the competition intensified.”
While 2023 saw over 430,000 fans at the Circuit of the Americas, initial worries about lower attendance this year have been dispelled by the championship’s evolving dynamics. Epstein’s earlier concerns about 2024 potentially being the “weakest year in four since the pandemic” have now evaporated.
The Austin race, set to be the fourth sprint weekend of 2024, will showcase Liam Lawson, who recently stepped in for the popular Daniel Ricciardo at Red Bull. Epstein hopes Ricciardo, known for his charismatic presence and iconic cowboy hat appearances, will still attend the event, given his significant fan appeal.
The weekend promises more than just racing action. Rap superstar Eminem is scheduled to perform on Saturday night, and a high-profile college football game between the Texas Longhorns and Georgia Bulldogs will contribute to the city’s festive atmosphere.
Epstein enthused, “We’re set for an unprecedented weekend of excitement and activities,” emphasizing the combined allure of F1, live music, and football. From October 18-20, Austin will be a hub of entertainment both on and off the track.
As Formula 1 emerges from a three-week hiatus, all attention turns to Austin for the 19th round of the 2024 season.
