F1 Practice Today: Schedule, Start Times, and How to Watch the 2025 United States Grand Prix Live
Formula 1 is back in action this weekend as the 2025 United States Grand Prix gets underway at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA) in Austin, Texas. The event will feature a sprint weekend format, meaning teams and drivers have just one practice session to prepare before heading straight into qualifying.
This round comes right after McLaren wrapped up the Constructors’ Championship in Singapore, though the drivers’ title remains undecided. With Oscar Piastri, Lando Norris, Max Verstappen, and George Russell still in the mix, the Texas heat could be a game-changer as the championship fight intensifies.
Only One Practice Before Sprint Qualifying
Unlike traditional Grand Prix weekends that usually feature three practice sessions, the sprint format at Austin leaves little room for error. Teams will only get one 60-minute practice session (FP1) to fine-tune their setups before the sprint qualifying begins later in the day.
The single practice session kicks off at 12:30 p.m. local time (CDT) on Friday, October 17, 2025. That’s 1:30 p.m. Eastern Time, 10:30 a.m. Pacific Time, 6:30 p.m. in the UK (BST), and 7:30 p.m. across Central Europe (CEST).
For viewers elsewhere:
South Africa – 7:30 p.m.
India – 11:00 p.m.
Singapore / China – 1:30 a.m. Saturday
Australia (AEDT) – 4:30 a.m. Saturday
After FP1, drivers will immediately turn their focus to Sprint Qualifying, which sets the grid for Saturday’s sprint race.
Full Weekend Schedule – United States Grand Prix 2025
Here’s the complete lineup of sessions for the weekend at COTA:
Day Session Local Time (CDT)Description Friday, Oct 17FP112:30 p.m.Single practice session Friday, Oct 17 Sprint Qualifying 4:30 p.m.Sets grid for Saturday sprint Saturday, Oct 18 Sprint Race 12:00 p.m.Short race for points and momentum Saturday, Oct 18 Grand Prix Qualifying 4:00 p.m.Decides Sunday’s starting order sunday, Oct 19 Grand Prix 2:00 p.m.Main race (56 laps)
Because of the compressed format, teams will need to balance setup precision with risk. There’s no FP2 or FP3, so mistakes in FP1 could carry through the entire weekend.
FIA Declares Austin a Heat Hazard
Adding to the challenge, the FIA has officially classified the United States Grand Prix as a “heat hazard.” With temperatures expected to exceed 33°C (91°F), both drivers and teams must take extra precautions.
Teams are expected to use modified cooling systems and lighter equipment, while drivers will rely on hydration strategies and cooling garments. The Austin circuit, known for its sweeping corners and elevation changes, will test not only the machinery but also human endurance across the sprint weekend.
The high heat will also affect tyre performance. Managing degradation and maintaining consistent grip over multiple sessions will be critical for success.
The Battle for the Drivers’ Title
Even though McLaren have already clinched the Constructors’ title, the focus now turns entirely to the drivers’ championship. Oscar Piastri currently leads the standings, but Lando Norris, Max Verstappen, and George Russell are all determined to close the gap.
Russell’s recent victory in Singapore demonstrated Mercedes’ renewed competitiveness, while Verstappen continues to push Red Bull forward despite a tough season. Norris, meanwhile, remains within striking distance of his teammate, eager to claim his first world title.
Piastri, however, has made clear he won’t back down. The internal McLaren rivalry—highlighted by their on-track duel in Singapore—is likely to continue this weekend in Austin.
Where to Watch the Action Live
United States: All sessions, including practice, sprint qualifying, and the race, will be broadcast live on ESPN and ESPN Deportes, with live streaming available through the ESPN App. The main Grand Prix on Sunday will also air on ABC starting at 1:30 p.m. ET, with the lights out at 3:00 p.m. ET.
United Kingdom: Sky Sports F1 will provide full live coverage across the weekend, including practice, sprint qualifying, and the main race.
Australia: Fans can tune in through Fox Sports, Foxtel, Kayo, or Network Ten for live sessions and highlights.
Other Broadcasters:
Italy – Sky Italia
Spain – DAZN F1
Canada – TSN, RDS
France – Canal+
Germany – Sky Deutschland, RTL
Brazil – Bandeirantes, Bandsports
Middle East & Turkey – beIN SPORTS
Additionally, F1 TV Pro and F1 TV Premium will stream every session globally with multiple camera angles, onboard feeds, and exclusive commentary options.
With only one hour of practice time before competitive sessions begin, teams must quickly find the right balance between pace and tyre wear. The Austin circuit’s combination of long straights, tight corners, and sweeping turns makes setup decisions particularly tricky.
The scorching conditions and limited preparation time are likely to shake up the competitive order, giving underdogs a chance to shine. As the 2025 F1 season nears its climax, every lap will count—not just for points, but for pride, precision, and survival under the Texan sun.
