F1 United States Grand Prix diary: Class and grandeur define weekend atmosphere

I went to a party and a Formula 1 race broke out. That’s the best way to describe what happened once I finally stepped foot inside Circuit of the Americas.

The most fascinating aspect of this trip is the comparison between Formula 1 and NASCAR. The reality is that there is no comparison at all.

When NASCAR sponsors treat their VIPs and media to hospitality functions, the menu usually includes barbecue or something fried. That would be undignified for those working in Formula 1.

The media roundtable with Christian Horner featured a cup of green tea, cranberry juice and sushi. Imagine that, a formal Japanese dinner at a European event deep in the heart of Texas. This is how Team Red Bull rolls.

But man do these guys know how to throw a party. A DJ is mixing tracks continuously throughout the evening, people are dancing and there’s always a drink to be had. Racing is in the backdrop. The party even takes precedent over track action.

It will interesting to see the party that will erupt at Red Bull’s hospitality box if Sebastian Vettel is able to win the race and secure his third-consecutive World Drivers’ Championship.

After the second practice session, our hosts at Infiniti treated us to a three-course meal at Judge's Hill and the food was extremely fancy. I'd love to tell you what it is, but the truth is that I'm not sure.

This Alabama-bred country boy was going through analytic shock at several points throughout dinner. For example, what was that and why does the steak smell like root beer?

That's not meant to be an insult to either Formula 1 or NASCAR. Simply put, NASCAR is beer and wings while Formula 1 is white wine and caviar.

Tomorrow, track action really heats up with free practice three and qualifying. So too will the number of updates.

I’m off to bed. Talk to you guys in the morning.