The world of Formula 1 racing is set for some new action with the highly anticipated debut of the Las Vegas Grand Prix.
This event marks a significant milestone in F1 racing, bringing the sport to the heart of the entertainment capital of the world, Las Vegas.
History Of Racing In Las Vegas
Vegas is making a comeback! It’s been over 40 years, but Formula 1 is finally returning to Las Vegas, one of the most iconic cities in the world. The last time F1 was in Vegas was in 1981 and 1982.
Back then, the race was held in the Caesars Palace casino’s parking lot.
That old circuit was tough, partly because it was anti-clockwise and super hot. But now, Vegas is stepping up its game. This time, the F1 action is hitting the city streets, including a thrilling 2km stretch right down the famous Strip.
Explore The Las Vegas Circuit
Turns 1 and 2: The race starts in a revamped area, now a grandstand-filled zone with a $500m pit and paddock complex. Watch out for tight turns and potential overtaking opportunities.
Turns 3 and 4: These right-handers combine into a long curve, leading cars onto Koval Lane, one of the longest straights in F1.
Turn 5: A visual treat awaits as drivers approach a 90-degree turn near the Sphere, a 112m-tall dome covered in LED lights.
Turns 6 to 9: This section now includes a chicane winding around the Sphere and onto Sands Avenue.
Turns 10 and 11: Drivers sweep past the Venetian resort and the shimmering Wynn Casino hotel, heading towards the Strip.
Turn 12: A key slow left-hander that brings cars onto The Strip, next to the Treasure Island hotel’s pirate ship.
Turn 13: The Las Vegas Strip: Expect high speeds and a stunning view of neon lights and iconic landmarks.
Turns 14 to 16: This section ends with a chicane between Planet Hollywood and the Cosmopolitan, leading onto East Harmon Avenue.
Turn 17: Another fast section, leading cars back towards the start/finish line.
Cost Of Building Las Vegas Circuit
The construction cost for the Las Vegas Grand Prix has soared to $400 million.
This increase, according to Liberty Media Corporation, is due to several factors. They’re working hard to get F1 back to Las Vegas, with a massive 300,000 square-foot paddock and road improvements along key routes like the Las Vegas Strip.
The high cost is mainly because of the tight deadline, unexpected road work issues, and efforts to make the event enjoyable for fans and minimize disruption for local businesses. Inflation and additional security measures also contributed to the rising expenses.
Initially, Liberty Media expected the costs to be around $240 million but now face a 60% increase. Despite this, they’re optimistic about the event’s success and plan to host the Grand Prix annually, riding on the growing popularity of F1 in the US.
How Many People Will Attend The Las Vegas GP?
The 2023 Las Vegas Grand Prix, announced last March, is shaping up to be a mega event in Formula 1. And here’s a twist – unlike other races this year, the Las Vegas Grand Prix runs from Thursday to Saturday.
There are about 100,000 tickets up for grabs each day. That means we’re expecting a crowd of around 300,000 over the weekend just for the Grand Prix. And that’s not even counting all the extra people who’ll be in the city just to catch the vibe and excitement.
