The 2012 Formula One Season was the 63rd season of Formula One. It was the penultimate year of 2.4 litre V8 engines, which were replaced in 2014 with 1.6 litre V6 turbo engines. It commenced in Australia on March 18, and concluded on November 25 in Brazil, after a record 20 races. This season marked the return of the United States Grand Prix, and the race was held at a new circuit near Austin, Texas. Sebastian Vettel was defending the drivers' championship crown, while his team, Red Bull, was defending the constructors' title.