Usain Bolt to be official race starter in Austin

Usain Bolt has been named the official starter for the United States Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas, joining a star studded ensemble for this weekend's race in Austin.

Sprint legend, an eight times Olympic gold medalist, Bolt will flag off the Formula 1 field for their formation lap on Sunday.

Bolt will be joined, in the paddock and grid, by Justin Timberlake who will perform a concert at the venue on Saturday, as well as Stevie Wonder who will perform a day later. Famous boxing announcer Michael Buffer will introduce the drivers to fans on race day.

Formula 1 commercial boss Sean Bratches explained, "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," added Bratches.