The process, known as ‘marrying the track’, took place on the start/finish straight, as the first phase of asphalting was completed between the first and last corners of the circuit.

With around three meters of clay having been excavated along the length of the track, it was replaced by a black polyester material of around 30 millimeters in thickness. This material will act as an envelope for layers of select fill, making sure it remains exactly in place.

Also on Friday, the Texas venue announced that it has now sold out of General Admission tickets but that entrances to some grandstands do remain. Fans from 37 foreign countries will be travelling to the race.