Las Vegas GP organizers dismiss sprint format for upcoming raceM
The organizers of the Las Vegas Grand Prix have confirmed they will not adopt the sprint race format used in Formula 1's other U.S. rounds in Austin and Miami. While the 100km sprint race concept aims to provide fans with more on-track action, the unique attributes of the Las Vegas GP have led organizers to maintain the current format.
Speaking ahead of next week’s second edition of the night race on the Las Vegas Strip, Formula 1’s Chief Commercial Officer, Emily Prazer, highlighted the exceptional racing witnessed last year as a key factor in the decision. “I think one of the big takeaways from last year is how insanely good the racing was,” she said, referring to the event promoted directly by Liberty Media-owned F1. Prazer expressed confidence in the existing format, stating, "We're quite comfortable letting Austin and Miami keep the sprint, because we've got so much more happening anyway and we're in a really good place."
The Las Vegas circuit's logistical demands also played a role in the decision, with the need to open and close 42 track locations daily presenting challenges. Prazer noted the potential risks involved with a sprint format: "I think adding a sprint would also create a nervousness of, can we fix the track fast enough if something was to happen?"
The contrasting logistical approach between Las Vegas and other street circuits, such as Singapore, was also emphasized. "I was in Singapore with the race and chatting to the promoter and they were like: 'We don't understand how you open and close the track the way you do.' They keep the roads closed for seven days," Prazer remarked. "Can you imagine us, the council, keeping the roads closed for seven days? It would just literally never happen, ever."
Renee Wilm, CEO of the Las Vegas Grand Prix, supported the current scheduling, pointing out the strategic placement on the F1 calendar, with Miami’s race in May and Austin’s in October. The race is a potential title decider, with Red Bull’s Max Verstappen leading McLaren’s Lando Norris by 62 points with three races to go.
Offering a view on the distinctive appeal of the various U.S. races, Wilm noted, "We are a lot of glamour and glitz, as Miami is, and having us separate on the calendar I do think is a good thing. Austin is a very different market. It’s the heartland of America. It’s cowboy boots and American flags and I think it brings in a different demographic of fan."
Highlighting the economic impact of the event, Steve Hill, CEO of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors’ Authority, stated, "November in Las Vegas is typically the eighth-best month of the year, November last year was the second-best month in our history."
With one of the most exhilarating night races on the horizon and the eyes of the Formula 1 world watching, Las Vegas is set to once again provide fans with a top-tier racing experience.
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