Formula 1 and IndyCar show different speed scenarios at Circuit of the Americas

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Aug 5, 2026, 3:00 AM

Last updated Aug 5, 2026

Formula 1 and IndyCar show different speed scenarios at Circuit of the Americas
Summary

Formula 1 outpaced IndyCar significantly at the Circuit of the Americas during their 2019 races. Valtteri Bottas set a pole lap at 1 minute 32.029 seconds, whereas Will Power's pole for IndyCar came in at 1 minute 46.0177 seconds. The distinctions in performance are largely attributed to Formula 1's enhanced downforce and horsepower. While IndyCar holds a record for higher sustained speeds at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, F1 remains faster on road and street courses overall. Each series showcases unique strengths depending on the circuit type.

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By the Numbers
  • At Circuit of the Americas, F1's pole time was 14 seconds faster than IndyCar's.
  • IndyCar's 2026 Indianapolis 500 pole averaged 232.248mph, over four laps.
  • F1's fastest speed trap in 2026 is 196mph at the Australian Grand Prix.
  • Bottas won the 2019 United States Grand Prix, clinching Hamilton's sixth title.
  • Comparisons vary by circuit type, affecting perceived speed differences.
Latest Updates
  • 3:00 AMYahoo SportsFormula 1 vs IndyCar – Which Is Faster?
What they're saying
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Formula 1 is faster than IndyCar on almost every kind of circuit that exists. On every road course and street circuit, F1 laps seconds quicker,…

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