Las Vegas Grand Prix organisers drop sprint race BOMBSHELL

Las Vegas Grand Prix organisers drop sprint race BOMBSHELL

The Las Vegas Grand Prix organizers have dismissed the idea of introducing a sprint race to their Formula 1 event, citing logistical and practical challenges unique to the venue.

The circuit, which weaves through the iconic Las Vegas Strip, presents scheduling complexities that make the additional demands of a sprint race unfeasible.

Formula 1 is set to return to Las Vegas later this month for the 22nd round of the 2024 season, where reigning champion Max Verstappen will aim to secure his fourth consecutive drivers’ title.

Last year marked the first Las Vegas GP in 39 years and the debut of the current street-race format that takes advantage of the city’s vibrant skyline.

The 2023 race was won by Verstappen, who celebrated in style with post-race interviews in front of the Bellagio fountains before departing in a limousine.

Sprint races have been a significant addition to Formula 1 in recent seasons, with six scheduled in 2024. Two of these have already taken place in the United States, with Verstappen winning in both Miami and Austin.

Despite their growing popularity, Las Vegas has decided to focus on enhancing its main event, recently introducing a Ferrari Challenge support race to bolster the 2024 lineup.

Emily Prazer, the chief commercial officer for the Las Vegas GP, explained the decision in interviews with media outlets.

She emphasized the complexities of organizing a race in the heart of a bustling city. The process requires an estimated 46 track openings and closures to minimize disruption.

Adding a sprint race would increase the risk of track damage and leave less time for repairs, a concern for event organizers.

Prazer also highlighted the stark differences between Las Vegas and other street circuits like Singapore.

In Singapore, roads remain closed for an entire week to accommodate the Grand Prix, a scenario that Prazer deemed impossible for Las Vegas.

Given the economic and logistical impact of prolonged closures on the city and its council, maintaining access to the Strip is a top priority.

The Las Vegas GP is uniquely managed by Formula 1 itself, setting it apart from most other races on the calendar.

Prazer noted that the logistical hurdles and the event’s current structure make it more sensible to leave the sprint format to U.S. venues like Austin and Miami, which are better equipped to handle the format.

In conclusion, the Las Vegas GP organizers are committed to refining the main event rather than overextending their schedule.

With its distinctive city-center layout and high stakes, the race is poised to remain a highlight of the Formula 1 calendar without the inclusion of a sprint race.