SI Swimsuit’s Cheat Sheet to Formula 1’s U.S. Grand Prix 2025

From the weekend’s schedule of events to fashion inspo for the main event, we’ve got you covered.

Ellie Thumann / Ethan Miller - Formula 1/Getty Images

It’s a huge weekend for motorsport fans, as the Formula 1 2025 Grand Prix is coming to the U.S. While Sunday’s race serves as the main event, the weekend will be packed full of activity, including more than 20 musical acts, driver Q&As, autograph sessions, culinary experiences and more.

While dedicated fans have been gearing up for the 19th race of the F1 season, which takes place in Austin, it’s understandable that novices may want to get in on the action this weekend, too. If you fall into the latter category and need a little F1 101 before this weekend’s festivities, we’ve put together the following guide to help.

What is Formula 1?

Formula 1, also known as F1, is known as the world’s most prestigious open-wheel single-seater formula racing competition in the world. Each season, drivers compete in a series of global races called the Grand Prix.

Where does the name Formula 1 come from?

The sport, which saw its first race in May of 1950, was deemed “Formula” as a nod to the rules and regulations all drivers must follow, while the “1” designates the sport’s status as being the premiere type of racing. Here’s another fun fact: while the sport was initially called “Formula Internationale,” it was officially changed in 1947, three years before the first world championship race took place.

How fast do Formula 1 cars go?

Formula 1 cars can exceed 220 mph during races. Last month, Max Verstappen of Red Bull Racing broke the F1 lap record with a time of 1:18.792 during the 2025 Italian Grand Prix qualifier. At the same time, he set the record for the fastest average speed of a lap with 164.47 mph.

How quickly can Formula 1 cars accelerate?

With the ability to go over 200 mph, it’s no surprise that these cars can go from 0 to 60 mph in as little as 1.6 seconds.

How long are Formula 1 races?

Races typically conclude after 90 minutes and are capped at a two-hour time limit duration. For context, there will be 56 laps completed at this weekend’s U.S. Grand Prix.

What is the F1 schedule for 2025?

The 2025 F1 season consists of 24 Grand Prix weekends, which began with the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne on March 16 and will conclude with the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on Dec. 7.

What are the dates for the U.S. Grand Prix 2025?

The U.S. Grand Prix will take place on Sunday, Oct. 19, with practice and qualifying events beginning on Friday, Oct. 17.

Where is the U.S. Grand Prix 2025?

The U.S. Grand Prix will take place at the Circuit of the Americas located in Austin.

What is the Circuit of the Americas?

The Circuit of the Americas is a sporting facility set on 1,500 acres in Austin. The Grade 1A, 3.426-mile racing track is the premiere destination for motorsports, and has hosted events like MotoGP and NASCAR in addition to Formula 1.

What is the schedule for the U.S. Grand Prix 2025 weekend?

• Friday, Oct. 17: Practice Session and Sprint Qualifying
• Saturday, Oct. 18: Sprint Race and Qualifying Session
• Sunday, Oct. 19: Grand Prix main event

Who races in the U.S. Grand Prix 2025?

Current Formula 1 drivers for the 2025 season can be found here, while teams can be found here. There are 20 drivers and 10 two-person teams total.

How can I watch the Grand Prix?

Fans can tune in to the U.S. Grand Prix on ABC. Coverage starts at 1:30 p.m. ET, while the race itself begins at 3 p.m. ET. The ESPN App will also stream live, as will ESPN Deportes.

How is SI Swimsuit celebrating the Grand Prix?

Located next to the F1 Fan Zone, Sports Illustrated will host Club SI today through Sunday, Oct. 19 at the Circuit of the Americas. The sold out hospitality suite includes food and beverage, entertainment, full-service concierge and more. Find additional details here.

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Grand Prix fashion inspiration

SI Swimsuit style

While the Grand Prix weekend is all about the race itself, we’d be remiss to not mention the sporty fashion that fills the stands. A few of our favorite looks from F1 events in years past include Lindsey Vonn’s sheer ‘fit, Kelsey Merritt’s all-black leather ensemble and Olivia Ponton’s low-backed mini dress.

Whether you’re attending the race in Austin this weekend or are throwing a watch party with friends at home, check out our F1 Grand Prix mood board for a bit of fashion inspo here. And in the meantime, find a few of our favorite F1 fashion moments worn by SI Swimsuit models over the last few years.

Ellie Thumann / Ethan Miller - Formula 1/Getty Images

Brooks Nader and Nicole Williams English / Ethan Miller - Formula 1/Getty Images

Lindsey Vonn / David Becker - Formula 1/Getty Images