Las Vegas Grand Prix: Formula 1 Takes Over Sin City for an Unforgettable Weekend

“Viva Las Vegas! Viva Las Vegas!” echoed an exuberant Max Verstappen as he crossed the finish line at last year’s inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix. His celebration wasn’t just about securing his 18th win of the 2023 season but also a notable shift in perspective. Initially dismissive of the Las Vegas event as “99 percent show, 1 percent sporting event,” Verstappen had clearly changed his tune.

“I hope everyone enjoyed it—we definitely did,” the three-time Drivers’ Champion said. “Excited to come back here next year and try to do something similar.”

Verstappen wasn’t alone in celebrating what many have deemed one of the year’s standout races. Though the debut faced early challenges—including a loose manhole cover that damaged Carlos Sainz’s Ferrari—the event quickly redeemed itself with an exhilarating start. Verstappen swiftly overtook pole-sitter Charles Leclerc, sparking a fierce 50-lap battle on the 3.85-mile street circuit. Ultimately, Verstappen triumphed, securing his dominance in the season’s Drivers’ Championship.

Even Leclerc, who claimed second place, was thrilled by the spectacle. “There was no better race for a first race in Vegas,” he remarked during the FIA post-race press conference. “The energy around the city is incredible.… We should have more races like that because it was really enjoyable.”

Building on a Successful Debut

The inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix, which saw over $600 million in investments from Formula One owner Liberty Media, set a high bar for the event. Yet, the upcoming sophomore edition promises to take the spectacle even further. From added racing series to expanded fan experiences, the 2024 race weekend is gearing up to be an unmissable event.

This year introduces the Ferrari Challenge Trofeo Pirelli series, adding another thrilling competition to the weekend. Meanwhile, new partners like Fontainebleau Las Vegas are elevating the festivities with unique experiences. The famous LIV nightclub brand transforms the Paddock Club Rooftop into “LIV on the Grid,” an open-air party space, while Gordon Ramsay debuts his culinary concept, “Ramsay’s Garage,” bringing gourmet dining to the heart of the action. Fans can enjoy these delights mere feet from F1 cars speeding past.

For something truly unique, the Paddock Club Rooftop will also host a 2,600-square-foot “Las Vegas Skate Circuit,” where guests can ice skate and soak in the race-day atmosphere. News stages around the venue will feature live performances by artists like Ludacris, Alesso, OneRepublic, Chromeo, The Beaches, and more. On the Heineken Silver Stage, acts like Big Boi, Snakehips, and Vandelux promise to keep the party going all weekend long.

Enhancing the Fan Experience

Steve Hill, CEO of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, highlights the event’s impact: “The inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix took the city and the racing world by storm with the largest global audience in Las Vegas history.” He added, “The sheer spectacle of this challenging course set against the lights of the Las Vegas Strip—paired with new fan experiences, top-tier news, and amazing food and beverage activations—makes us incredibly excited for year two.”

To ensure fans have an even better experience, organizers have addressed feedback from the debut event. More general admission tickets will be available this year, a welcome improvement after last year’s limited availability. Additionally, practice and qualifying sessions will start earlier, giving attendees more time to explore the weekend’s offerings.

Wynn’s Ultimate Race Week

Wynn Las Vegas returns with its luxurious Ultimate Race Week programming, running from Wednesday, November 20, through Sunday, November 24. Last year’s festivities included a star-studded red carpet event hosted by Patrick Dempsey, a special appearance by seven-time Drivers’ Champion Lewis Hamilton, and a screening of Ferrari that drew racing and Hollywood elites.

This year, Wynn elevates its offerings with the exclusive Wynn Grid Club, situated at the Paddock Club. Guests will enjoy premium seating with unparalleled views of the first turn—arguably the race’s most exciting vantage point—and direct sightlines into the pit lane. The Grid Club provides guests with concierge services, a dedicated service manager, and private F1 experiences, including access to practice and qualifying sessions.

Brian Gullbrants, COO of Wynn North America, emphasizes the exclusivity: “Wynn Grid Club is the most sought-after ticket of the week, offering an intimate yet action-packed experience right at the heart of the race.” The package includes three nights of luxury accommodations and two tickets to the Grid Club, starting at $65,000.

A Weekend to Remember

The Las Vegas Grand Prix promises to be more than just a race—it’s a celebration of speed, style, and spectacle. With thrilling racing action, world-class news, and unique fan experiences, it’s shaping up to be one of Formula One’s most iconic weekends. Whether you’re there for the adrenaline-pumping competition or the vibrant atmosphere of Sin City, the Las Vegas Grand Prix is an event not to be missed.