Eight-time Olympic champion Usain Bolt has joined a star-studded line-up at the United States Grand Prix this season as new owners Liberty Media aim to put on the best show possible at their first home race since taking over control of the sport.
Bolt will give the signal for the drivers to start the formation on Sunday afternoon, but before that, the drivers will be welcomed on to the grid by legendary announcer Michael Buffer before a pre-race show involving Stevie Wonder and the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders takes place on the grid.
Meanwhile Justin Timberlake is set to perform on Saturday, which has forced a schedule change, with qualifying taking place at 16:00 local time (22:00 UK time) – two hours later than originally scheduled, whilst the race is due to start at 14:00 local time (16:00 UK time).
F1 commercial chief Sean Bratches is hopeful the additions will take F1 to another level as he seeks to wow fans both at home and in attendance, as part of wider plans to create a party atmosphere around the racing.
![Aston Martin managed its first race finish of 2026 with Fernando Alonso [behind] completing the distance](https://www.motorsportweek.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Aston-Martin-Honda-Japanese-GP-120x86.webp)
"We continue to layer in new elements at each grand prix and this innovative driver presentation format seemingly was an appropriate addition for Austin," he said.
"The USA is, without a doubt, the country where sports events are seen as entertainment that goes above and beyond the purely sporting contest.
"We want to do something that positions Formula 1 Grands Prix as breaking the boundaries, between sport and a show, thus becoming a unique event that, minute by minute is an unforgettable experience."
![Aston Martin managed its first race finish of 2026 with Fernando Alonso [behind] completing the distance](https://www.motorsportweek.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Aston-Martin-Honda-Japanese-GP-350x250.webp)
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