The Las Vegas Grand Prix: Fast Cars, Bright Lights, and Unforgettable Moments

The Las Vegas Grand Prix, held on the iconic Las Vegas Strip Circuit, is a spectacle unlike any other in Formula 1. With its high speeds, glamorous setting, and thrilling racing action, it has quickly become a fan favorite. But beyond the glitz and glamour, the Las Vegas Grand Prix has a rich history, both recent and dating back to the early days of Formula 1. Let's dive into the track records, memorable moments, and fascinating anecdotes that make this race so special.

A Blast from the Past: Formula 1's Early Days in Vegas

While the current Las Vegas Grand Prix debuted in 2023, Formula 1's history in Sin City goes back to the early 1980s. In 1981 and 1982, the Caesars Palace Grand Prix was held on a temporary circuit constructed in the hotel's parking lot1. This early foray into Las Vegas was not without its challenges. The track, known for its tight and twisty layout, was not popular among drivers, with some even describing it as "one of the worst circuits Formula 1 has ever visited".

Despite its unpopularity, the Caesars Palace Grand Prix saw some legendary drivers like Alan Jones and Nelson Piquet compete for victory. Interestingly, both years the championship was decided in Las Vegas, with Nelson Piquet and Keke Rosberg clinching the title in '81 and '82 respectively. Before Formula 1's return, the last major open-wheel race on the streets of Las Vegas was the 2007 Vegas Grand Prix, part of the Champ Car World Series. This race saw Will Power take his first victory in the series.

The Las Vegas Strip Circuit: Where Speed Meets Spectacle

Building upon this history, the modern Las Vegas Strip Circuit is a purpose-built street circuit designed to showcase the city's vibrant atmosphere. The circuit was designed by Tilke GmbH, with Carsten Tilke, son of renowned circuit designer Hermann Tilke, leading the project. At 3.853 miles long with 17 corners, it winds its way through some of the most iconic landmarks on the Las Vegas Strip. Imagine Formula 1 cars speeding past the Bellagio fountains, Caesars Palace, and the MSG Sphere – it's a truly unique experience.

The city has granted Formula One permission to use the roads required for the race for ten years. When the race was announced in March 2022, the track layout featured 14 corners. It was later revised with the addition of a chicane, bringing the number of corners to 17. Formula One also made a significant investment in the city, purchasing a piece of land for $240 million to build permanent pit and paddock facilities. These facilities are not only used during race weekends but also contribute to the overall infrastructure of the area.

The circuit itself is a high-speed spectacle, designed to deliver thrilling racing action. It features long straights where cars can reach top speeds, interspersed with challenging corners that test the drivers' skills and bravery. One of the most notable features is a 1.2-mile straight along Las Vegas Boulevard, where cars can reach exhilarating speeds. This combination of speed, challenging corners, and the iconic backdrop of the Las Vegas Strip is what sets this Grand Prix apart.

Track Records: A Glimpse of the Fastest Laps

While the Las Vegas Grand Prix is still relatively new, some impressive track records have already been set. Here's a look at the fastest laps from the 2023 and 2024 races:

Year	Position	Driver	Car	Lap	Time	Avg Speed
2023	1	Oscar Piastri	McLaren Mercedes	47	1:35.490	233.779 mph
2023	2	Max Verstappen	Red Bull Racing Honda RBPT	44	1:35.614	233.476 mph
2023	3	Charles Leclerc	Ferrari	50	1:35.669	233.342 mph
2024	1	Lando Norris	McLaren Mercedes		1:34.876

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These speeds are comparable to those seen at other high-speed circuits like Monza and Jeddah, showcasing the fast nature of the Las Vegas Strip Circuit. In the 2024 race, George Russell secured pole position with a time of 1:32.312, demonstrating the grip and downforce levels achievable on this track. These records are sure to be challenged in future races as drivers become more familiar with the circuit and car technology continues to evolve.

Memorable Moments: From Double Overtakes to Dramatic Victories

The Las Vegas Grand Prix has already produced its fair share of unforgettable moments. In the inaugural 2023 race, Sergio Perez pulled off a daring double overtake, passing both Liam Lawson and Kevin Magnussen in one go. This audacious move showcased Perez's skill and racecraft, highlighting the overtaking opportunities the circuit provides.

The 2024 race saw George Russell dominate from start to finish, securing a memorable victory for Mercedes. Despite facing pressure from his teammate Lewis Hamilton, Russell held his nerve to take the checkered flag. This 1-2 finish for Mercedes was a testament to their strong performance throughout the weekend.

Beyond the on-track action, the Las Vegas Grand Prix is known for its off-track spectacle. The 2023 race weekend featured a star-studded grid walk with celebrities like Will.i.am and Gordon Ramsay adding to the glamorous atmosphere. This blend of sporting drama and entertainment is what makes the Las Vegas Grand Prix such a unique event.

Driver's Perspectives

Drivers have expressed a mix of excitement and apprehension about the Las Vegas Strip Circuit. Fernando Alonso, a two-time F1 champion, finished ninth in the 2023 Las Vegas Grand Prix. While he hasn't achieved the same level of success in Las Vegas as he has at other circuits, his experience highlights the challenges and unique characteristics of this track. As drivers gain more experience on the circuit, their insights and perspectives will continue to add to the narrative of the Las Vegas Grand Prix.

Anecdotes and Insights: Adding Color to the Story

Every Formula 1 race has its own unique stories and anecdotes, and the Las Vegas Grand Prix is no exception. One interesting fact is that the World Championship has been won in Las Vegas three times: by Nelson Piquet in 1981, Keke Rosberg in 1982, and Max Verstappen in 2024. Remarkably, on all three occasions, the driver secured the title by finishing fifth in the race! This unusual trend adds a layer of intrigue to the history of Formula 1 in Las Vegas.

Another interesting tidbit is that no Formula 1 driver hails from the state of Nevada. Perhaps the excitement of the Las Vegas Grand Prix will inspire a future generation of Nevadan racers to make their mark on the sport.

Conclusion: The Future of Formula 1 in Vegas

The Las Vegas Grand Prix has quickly established itself as a highlight of the Formula 1 calendar. With its thrilling racing action, glamorous setting, and unique atmosphere, it's a race that captures the imagination of fans worldwide. The combination of high speeds, challenging corners, and the iconic backdrop of the Las Vegas Strip creates a spectacle unlike any other in Formula 1.

The race's history, dating back to the Caesars Palace Grand Prix, adds another layer of intrigue. While those early races were held on a less-than-ideal circuit, they paved the way for the modern Las Vegas Grand Prix, which has embraced the city's vibrant energy and entertainment.

The memorable moments witnessed in the first two races, from daring overtakes to dominant victories, demonstrate the exciting racing action the Las Vegas Strip Circuit provides. The off-track spectacle, with celebrity appearances and entertainment events, further enhances the unique atmosphere of the race weekend.

The Las Vegas Grand Prix is not just a race; it's an experience. It's a testament to Formula 1's growing popularity in the United States and its ability to blend sporting drama with entertainment. As the race continues to evolve, we can expect to see more record-breaking laps, unforgettable moments, and fascinating stories emerge from the Las Vegas Strip Circuit. The future of Formula 1 in Vegas is bright, and we can't wait to see what the next chapter holds.