Formula One: The new track in Austin, Texas - in pictures

This image, shot just a month ago in October 2012, shows the layout of the new 3.4 mile circuit which will host F1 races from 2012 through to 2021 Photograph: David Levene

Normally a project of this magnitude would take years to complete but construction of the Circuit of the Americas only began in early 2011, with finish touches applied only in the last couple of weeks Photograph: David Levene

Approximately 700 workers have been working on the project Photograph: David Levene

There is a climb of 133 feet from the start-line to turn one – it's a formidable beginning Photograph: David Levene

The reverse view shows the main grandstand Photograph: David Levene

The track has capacity for 120,000 fans Photograph: David Levene

A pedestrian bridge crosses the track near to turn 3 Photograph: David Levene

… after which comes turn 4, a 100-degree left-hander Photograph: David Levene

Turn 11 is a tight hairpin Photograph: David Levene

From turn 11, there's a long, undulating straight where top speeds are expected to reach 200mph Photograph: David Levene

The Tower near to Turn 17 will provide a unique vantage point Photograph: David Levene

This aerial shot, obtained by our photographer while flying above track with Austin Helicopter Tours, shows one half of the 1000-acre site in southeast Austin, which sits approximately two miles from Austin Bergstrom International Airport Photograph: David Levene

Not only will this circuit host F1 races, but also MotoGP races from 2013 to 2022 Photograph: David Levene

The circuit is the first ever purpose-built F1 race track in the USA. The first practice session begins on Thursday, with the big race on Sunday Photograph: David Levene