Moto3 - Circuit of the Americas

The Circuit of the Americas hosts the Moto3 Grand Prix of the Americas as part of the FIM MotoGP™ World Championship. This event showcases the Moto3 class alongside the premier MotoGP and Moto2 categories at the world-class facility in Austin, Texas.

About Circuit of the Americas

Circuit of the Americas is a purpose-built motor racing facility located in Austin, Texas. The track opened in 2012 and spans 3.426 miles (5.513 km) in length. The circuit features 20 turns, with 11 left-hand corners and 9 right-hand corners. The track runs counter-clockwise, which adds a unique challenge for riders.

The circuit presents a dramatic 133-foot (41 m) elevation change. The steep uphill climb to Turn 1 creates a demanding start to each lap. Riders navigate this blind, tight left-hander after accelerating up the incline. The longest straight on the circuit measures 1.2 kilometers (0.745 miles), providing opportunities for overtaking and high speeds.

The track design came from promoter Tavo Hellmund, 1993 Motorcycle World Champion Kevin Schwantz, and German architect Hermann Tilke. Their collaboration resulted in a technical layout that challenges riders across all classes.

The Moto3 Championship

Moto3 serves as the entry-level category in the FIM MotoGP™ World Championship. Young riders develop their skills and compete for world championship points throughout the season. The class provides close racing and competitive action as future stars emerge.

Technical Specifications

Moto3 motorcycles use single-cylinder, 250cc, four-stroke engines. These machines balance performance with rider development. Pirelli supplies all tires for the Moto3 class, maintaining consistency across the field.

Riders have access to two front and two rear slick tire solutions. The soft SC1 compound and medium SC2 compound offer different performance characteristics. Teams select tire combinations based on track conditions and rider preference. Regulations require a minimum rear tire pressure of 1.50 bar (22 PSI).

Honda and KTM continue as the main manufacturers in the Moto3 class. Both brands provide competitive machinery to various teams throughout the championship.

Teams and Riders

The provisional lineup for the Moto3 championship includes several established teams. Red Bull KTM Ajo fields Alvaro Carpe and Brian Uriate. CFMoto Aspar Team runs Maximo Quiles and Marco Morelli. Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP enters David Munoz and David Almansa.

Leopard Racing competes with Adrian Fernandez and Guido Pini. Red Bull KTM Tech3 features Valentin Perrone and Rico Salmela. LEVELUP - MTA brings Matteo Bertelle and Joel Esteban to the grid.

Additional teams include FRINSA - MT Helmets - MSi with Ryusei Yamanaka and Hakim Danish. GRYD – MLav Racing runs Joel Kelso and Eddie O'Shea. Sic58 Squadra Corse fields Casey O'Gorman and Leo Rammerstorfer.

CIP Green Power enters Adrian Cruces and Scott Ogden. Rivacold Snipers Team competes with Nicola Carraro and Jesus Rios. Honda Team Asia features Veda Pratama and Zen Mitani. The lineup remains provisional and may change before the season begins.

Moto3 at Circuit of the Americas

Circuit of the Americas first welcomed MotoGP and the Moto3 class in 2013. The track has established itself as a demanding venue that tests rider skill and motorcycle setup. The combination of elevation changes, technical corners, and long straights creates varied racing conditions.

The circuit challenges riders with its unique characteristics. Turn 1 demands precise braking and throttle control on the steep uphill approach. The technical middle sector requires smooth transitions between corners. The final sector offers opportunities for overtaking before the finish line.

Circuit Features

Circuit of the Americas holds the distinction of being the first purpose-built Formula 1 track in the United States. The facility extends beyond motorcycle and car racing to serve as a comprehensive entertainment venue.

The 251-foot (77 m) Observation Tower provides panoramic 360-degree views of the entire track and the Austin skyline. Spectators can watch the action unfold from this vantage point.

The circuit design draws inspiration from famous European tracks. Elements similar to the "Senna S" at Interlagos and the Maggotts-Becketts-Chapel section at Silverstone appear in the layout. These references create a familiar yet unique experience for riders.

Beyond motorsports, the facility includes the Germania Insurance Amphitheater, a permanent outdoor concert venue. A karting track allows fans to experience racing firsthand. COTALAND, a planned amusement park, expects to have some rides operational, situated between turns 19 and 20 of the racetrack.

What to Expect

The Moto3 race at Circuit of the Americas offers close competition among emerging talent. Riders push their 250cc machines to the limit on this challenging circuit. The technical layout rewards precision and consistency while providing opportunities for brave overtaking moves.

Weather conditions in Texas can vary, adding another variable to race strategy. Teams must adapt their setups and tire choices accordingly. The combination of rider skill, team strategy, and machine performance determines the outcome.

This event promises compelling action as the Moto3 championship unfolds. Fans can witness the next generation of motorcycle racing talent compete at one of the premier facilities in North America.