F1 will race at Las Vegas from 2023 after signing a three-year deal with the Nevada city. It means that the United States will host three Grands Prix from next year.
The Las Vegas Grand Prix will take place on a 3.8-mile street circuit, with 14 corners and the potential for cars to hit over 210mph down a long back straight. The circuit will utilise the iconic Las Vegas Strip, with cars flying past Vegas’ legendary hotels and casinos.
It is a contrast to the last time that Formula 1 raced in Las Vegas, when the cars raced around a strange, hairpin-packed circuit set out around the car park of the Ceasers Palace Hotel in 1981 and 1982.
The 2023 Las Vegas Grand Prix will also be the first time F1 has raced on a Saturday since 1985, with the championship moving its race day for the first time in nearly 40 years in order to secure a prime time US TV slot as the cars race at night. Famous hotels and casinos are involved in the organising of the race, including the MGM Grand and Ceasers palace.
Speaking at the launch of the Las Vegas Grand Prix, F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali said: “This is an incredible moment for Formula 1 that demonstrates the huge appeal and growth of our sport with a third race in the US. 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. I want to thank everyone who helped deliver this event, especially Governor Sisolak, the Clark County Commission, Steve Hill at the LVCVA, and our local partners.”
No announcement has been made as to whether an existing race will lose out in order for the Las Vegas F1 race to take place. But with an agreement that no more than 24 races can be held in a season and with Qatar and Vegas set to join and the Chinese Grand Prix having a contract it seems certain that one of F1’s traditional locations will lose out.
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