As Las Vegas prepares to host its first Formula One Grand Prix in over four decades, the event is already sparking controversy among participants. Max Verstappen, the three-time world champion, has expressed his dissatisfaction with the race’s focus on entertainment over sport. The event, which features performances by Kylie Minogue, Journey, and John Legend, along with a host of Las Vegas-style attractions, has been criticized by Verstappen for being “99% show, 1% sport.”
By August Roberts
The Glitz and Glamour of F1 in Vegas
The Las Vegas Grand Prix is set to be a spectacle, with its opening ceremony featuring star-studded performances and various attractions, including people dressed as Elvis and a ‘no money’ casino. The race, taking place on a temporary street circuit on the famous Las Vegas Strip, marks the first time since 1982 that Las Vegas has hosted a Formula One event. While the glitz and glamour are attracting attention, they are also raising questions about the balance between entertainment and the essence of the sport.
Verstappen’s Candid Critique
Max Verstappen, who recently secured his latest world title, has been vocal about his views on the Las Vegas Grand Prix. He criticized the event for prioritizing showmanship over the sport, stating, “I think it is 99% show, 1% sport.” Verstappen’s candidness reflects his commitment to the integrity of Formula One racing, even as the event seeks to draw in a broader audience with its entertainment-focused approach.
Diverse Opinions Among Drivers
Not all drivers share Verstappen’s perspective. Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc sees room for both racing and entertainment, hoping the event can successfully blend the two. His teammate, Carlos Sainz, also expressed enjoyment of the week’s festivities, including a golf event with PGA Tour star Justin Thomas. McLaren’s Lando Norris views the race as another competition, despite its unique night setting and glamorous atmosphere.
The Race Ahead
The Las Vegas Grand Prix is scheduled for Saturday, featuring a 50-lap race on a 3.8-mile street circuit. The event, taking place at night, adds an extra layer of excitement and challenge for the drivers. While Verstappen has dominated the season, winning 17 of the 20 races, the Las Vegas Grand Prix presents a new test for all competitors, including his closest rivals, Red Bull teammate Sergio Pérez and Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton, who is still seeking his first win of the year.
The Las Vegas Grand Prix is a fusion of high-speed racing and high-stakes entertainment, a combination that has sparked debate among drivers and fans alike. While some embrace, the spectacle, others, like Max Verstappen, yearn for a greater focus on the sport itself. As the engines rev up in the heart of Las Vegas, the world watches to see if this event will redefine the future of Formula One or remain a unique, albeit controversial, chapter in its history.