Mazepin itching to try out Sector 1 at COTA

Haas’ Nikita Mazepin is looking forward to testing himself through COTA’s high-speed Sector 1 at the United States Grand Prix.

After a season away from the Formula 1 calendar, the United States Grand Prix returns for 2021 and for Mazepin it means a first experience of Austin’sCircuit of the Americas.

As the track design takes inspiration from several iconic corners from around the world, it is one that proves popular with the drivers.

The opening sector is where most of the high-speed action takes place after the uphill run to Turn 1. The sweeping Turns 3, 4, 5 and 6 are meant to replicate the famous Maggots and Becketts section atSilverstone.

“I think I’m looking forward most to the Sector 1 high-speed corners as I think they’re very tricky,” said Mazepin as he previewed the United States GP with his Haas team.

“Turn 1 reminds me very much of Turn 3 in Austria, but I’ll need to walk it first to make a complete assumption.

“这是a very interesting venue, a cool track and I’ve never raced there so I’m looking forward to getting out there. It’s a track that requires a lot of rhythm, so hopefully I find it quickly!”

Mick Schumacheris also raring to go on the other side of the garage for the United States is not only a home race for Haas, but also a market for Formula 1 which is on the verge of big growth.

“这是our home race so obviously I’m excited about that, but it’s much more than that,” he said.

“I like Austin and the US. It’s special and it’s something where Formula 1 isn’t as big just yet but we are on the verge of becoming very big, especially due to the ‘Drive to Survive’ series.

“I’m very much looking forward to it as it’s a great show, there’s always so much happening and frankly I’m just super-excited about going back to the States.

“我认为这是一个非常特殊的轨道。你有福irst part which is super-quick with tight corners and it’s very bumpy, so it’s definitely a challenge but also it’s a racetrack where overtaking is definitely possible.

“Hopefully for us it will be a wet race as it will give us the most opportunities but if not, I’m just looking forward to racing out on that track. It’s had famous battles previously and I’m sure we will be able to be a part of those one day.”