Tavo Hellmund is the brain child in bringing Formula 1 racing to Austin.
“It's always been a dream to bring it to Austin,” said Hellmund.
Tavo has a long standing relationship with Formula 1. It was that relationship that helped Austin win the hosting rights for The U.S. Grand Prix. A former race car driver turned promoter, Tavo knew Austin would be the perfect place.
He is a fierce competitor who wants to be in charge when the game is on the line. “Those of you who know me, know I'm the type of guy who wants the ball with one second left,” Hellmund said. “I don't want to hand it off. I want the ball when it's on the line.”
He also understands the importance of assembling a team.
“He's got attention to detail, focused and he delivers,” said friend Paul Carrozza.
He learned important life lessons from his Dad and Grandfather.
“I think if you can go forward and surround yourself with people who want the ball too, they are leaders themselves. And it makes you an incredible force,” Hellmund said.
Those lessons led him to announce his partner in the project, Red McCombs. McCombs is a wealthy San Antonio car dealer. He previously owned the San Antonio Spurs, Denver Nuggets and the NFL’S Minnesota Vikings.
“The other thing my Granddad told me when I was little is, 'You don't judge a man's success by the size of his wallet. You judge it by the quality of relationships he has with his family and friends,'” said Hellmund.
