The Formula 1 United States Grand Prix in Austin, Texas is set to feature a high-profile musical performer this year. The Circuit of the Americas (COTA) is so confident in the popularity of the artist that they are offering to buy back “early bird” tickets from buyers and pay them an extra $50 per ticket. This move has sparked controversy among fans, with some calling COTA scalpers for re-selling tickets at a higher price than the initial $299 fee. The identity of the musical guest has not been disclosed yet, adding to the anticipation and speculation among fans and attendees.
Past musical guests at the Grand Prix in Austin have included big names like Taylor Swift, Britney Spears, Bruno Mars, and Billy Joel. COTA founding partner Bobby Epstein stated that the upcoming musical guest is the biggest they have had since Taylor Swift performed a few years ago. The announcement of the entertainment lineup is scheduled for April 29, and early bird ticket buyers have until May 6 to sell back their tickets for $350. Despite the backlash, Epstein remains optimistic that fans will see the value in their ticket purchase and continue to support the event in the future.
COTA is offering the buyback option for any general admission three-day weekend grounds pass, which was sold at a limited number and garnered significant interest. Epstein mentioned that they sold over 10,000 early bird general admission passes, and the limited number of general admission tickets to be released after the announcement of the artist will still be priced below $400. Last year’s general admission price was around $475, indicating that COTA is committed to offering affordable options for fans to attend the prestigious event taking place from October 18-20.
The Grand Prix is known for its glitz and glamour, offering various seating options ranging from basic general admission to private air-conditioned suites and club seats that come at a premium cost. Epstein clarified that the buyback offer was not intended for fans to profit from reselling their tickets, but rather to highlight the value of the tickets and show appreciation for early bird buyers. The decision to buy back tickets at a higher price reflects COTA’s confidence in the popularity of the upcoming musical performer and the potential to attract a larger audience to the event.
Fans have expressed mixed reactions to the buyback offer, with some appreciating the opportunity to sell back their tickets at a profit while others criticize COTA for potentially reselling tickets at a higher price. Epstein remains confident that once the musical guest is announced, fans will see the value in attending the Grand Prix and be encouraged to keep their tickets. As the anticipation builds for the upcoming event and the reveal of the musical guest, COTA is gearing up to offer an unforgettable experience for attendees and showcase the intersection of music and motorsport at this year’s Formula 1 United States Grand Prix in Austin, Texas.
