After a thrilling race in Brazil, Formula 1 returns this weekend to the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas for the fourth time in history. This Saturday night, the 2024 World Champion may officially be crowned.
A Historic Venue with a Modern Touch
Las Vegas GP first appeared on the F1 calendar in 1981 and 1982, with races held on a circuit near Caesars Palace. Last year, the event moved to a spectacular new layout featuring parts of the iconic Las Vegas Strip.
The race marks the third U.S.-based event this season, following Miami and Austin. At 6.201 km long, the Las Vegas circuit is the second-longest track on the calendar, behind Spa-Francorchamps. With 17 turns and top speeds reaching 350 km/h, it’s a high-speed venue promising plenty of overtaking opportunities, particularly at Turn 14.
The event’s nighttime schedule adds to the allure, with races conducted under dazzling lights. However, Las Vegas presents unique challenges. Located in the Mojave Desert, the circuit is subject to significant temperature drops, with air temperatures around 10°C expected. This poses a test for drivers and teams, as cooler conditions can impact tire performance and grip.
Tires and Strategy: The Key to Victory
Pirelli has brought its softest compounds—C3 (Hard), C4 (Medium), and C5 (Soft)—to tackle the circuit. Tire warming will be critical, particularly during qualifying sessions and for front tires. Drivers must balance warming the tires without overworking them, as locked brakes and excessive wear can prove costly.
Pit strategies will play a pivotal role, with two-stop plans likely being the most effective due to accelerated tire wear. While undercuts are less advantageous on this track, extending initial stints to preserve tire life could be a winning strategy.
Teams will also rely on data collected from last year’s race to fine-tune their approach. Initial practice sessions on Thursday will provide critical insights into tire degradation and track grip levels, helping teams adapt their simulations to real-world conditions.
Street Racing Drama Awaits
As with many street circuits, red flags and safety cars are anticipated, adding unpredictability to the event. In 2023, Max Verstappen emerged victorious, followed by Charles Leclerc and Sergio Perez. Most drivers favored Medium tires at the start, with the Medium and Hard compounds dominating the race.
A Rich F1 Legacy in the U.S.
The Las Vegas GP represents the 79th F1 event hosted in the U.S. since 1950, making it one of the most significant nations in the sport’s history. Notable American venues include Austin, Miami, and the legendary Watkins Glen.
This weekend, two of the most successful U.S. F1 drivers, Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen—each with six wins in the country—will battle it out once more. Ferrari, the winningest team on American soil with 14 victories, will also host a special Ferrari Challenge event, adding extra excitement to the Las Vegas spectacle.
With its high-speed layout, iconic setting, and unpredictable conditions, the Las Vegas GP is set to deliver another unforgettable chapter in Formula 1 history.
