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COTA names Turn 1 'Big Red' in honour of track's co-founder

Austin's Circuit of the Americas has renamed its Turn 1 'Big Red' in honour of Texas billionaire Red McCombs, the visionary investor that helped fund COTA.

The popular venue has been the home of the United States Grand Prix since 2012, and hosts a wide array of motorsport events, including a round of the MotoGP world championship.

McCombs, 93, the founder of the Red McCombs Automotive Group and a former owner of the San Antonio Spurs NBA team, was COTA's largest initial investor.

A naming ceremony took place last Thursday at the track, where a large 'Big Red' was painted at Turn 1's run-off area.

The corner is a defining feature of the 5.513km circuit as it concludes a steep elevation change from the main straight and is one of the track's main overtaking points.

"COTA’s internationally famous track is known for its unique features and thrilling elevations," said COTA Chairman Bobby Epstein.

"From Formula 1 to MotoGP, and stock cars to sports cars, anyone who starts a race at COTA knows what it’s like to face this beast of a beginning.

"It’s big, bold and Texas. And, now it has a fitting name – Big Red.

"Red McCombs is a Texas legend; known for his big heart, successful businesses, and love for his home state. I’m delighted that we are able to honour his legacy."

Read also: FIA confirms record 23-race calendar for F1 in 2021

This year's US Grand Prix which was scheduled to take place on October 25 was cancelled due to the coronavirus.

But Formula 1 will hopefully resume its annuals visits to Austin next year, as the race is featured on the sport's 2021 calendar, on October 24.

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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.