Yes, the worst kept secret in Formula 1 since George Russel’s move to Mercedes is finally official. F1 today announced the long-anticipated deal with Las Vegas that will see a third Grand Prix in the United States.
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F1 raced in Las Vegas in 1981 and 1982 at the hugely unpopular Caesars Palace venue, a track built in the car park of the legendary hotel and casino.
This time promises to be much more of a spectacle, with the city hosting a Saturday night race on a street circuit that includes the famous Las Vegas Strip. The circuit was revealed to be a 14-turn, 3.8 miles (6.12km) circuit with a top speed of 212mph (342km/h).
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Formula 1 announced the news at a live launch event attended by F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali.
“Las Vegas is a destination known around the world for its excitement, hospitality, thrills, and of course, the famous Strip. There is no better place for Formula 1 to race than in the global entertainment capital of the world and we cannot wait to be here next year”, he stated.
He was joined by CEO of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA), Steve Hill who hailed Las Vegas as ‘The Greatest Arena on Earth’. He said, “spectators will experience the unrivalled thrill of watching these world-class drivers race through what is sure to become one of the most iconic racetracks in the world.”
Liberty Media President and CEO Greg Maffei went on to say, “we could not be more excited to work with our local partners to create a marquee event. The potential of Formula 1 has been well demonstrated over the last several seasons and the Las Vegas GP will only take it to the next level.”
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Lights go out for the first Las Vegas GP in November 2023, with no official date yet. The current contract is for three years, with Domenicalli saying that he hopes it will be longer.
Tickets are not yet on sale, but if the recent ticket releases for Grand Prix in Austin and Miami are anything to go by they will be a near-instant sell-out.
Prices are expected to be sky-high, on a par with the Miami GP. As well as grandstands they will include exclusive hospitality choices provided in partnership with Las Vegas hotels and resorts.
Unlike this year’s race in Miami though it has been confirmed that general admission tickets will be available to offer a more affordable option.
I’m Danny, an incurable Formula 1 fan for over 30 years and founder of The F1 Spectator. My aim is to inform and inspire, arming you with helpful tips and advice for your next F1 trip.