Haas' Steiner says second F1 race in the US 'will happen'

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As the boss of US outfit Haas, Guenther Steiner would like nothing more than to see a second race in the US added to the calendar, and the Italian is confident F1 will make it happen.

The F1 community returns to The Circuit of the Americas in Austin for the seventh time, and the venue is naturally an important event for Grand Prix racing's single American entry.

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As Formula 1 works to boost its presence in the US, with Miami's plans to stage a race in the future still active, Steiner explains why adding a second Grand Prix in America is fully justified.

"I think it’s very important for Formula One to have a race in the United States. For a long time, until COTA came on the scene, there wasn’t one," said the Italian team manager ahead of next week's USGP.

"I think the fan base is growing. It’s important for Formula One, but also for us because it’s our home grand prix. We’re all looking forward to it.

"It would be fantastic to have a second Formula One race in America. I think we will get there. It takes a little bit of time, but it will happen."

The promoters of the current US Grand Prix are obviously attentive to ongoing developments in their country, but Steiner believes a second race would only enhance Austin rather than reduce its importance.

"I think it would accentuate it. There are enough fans, we could get attention for two races," he says.

"I think it would add to the presence of Formula 1 in the United States and not take anything away from COTA."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.