Formula 1 has confirmed a return to Las Vegas in 2023 for a Grand Prix to be held on the world-famous Strip.
Rumours of a third American race in the Nevada desert have been circulating for months, and it was finally made official at an event on Wednesday evening with Liberty Media CEO Greg Maffei and F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali in attendance.
This will be the second time F1 has raced in Vegas with a first foray coming in 1981-82 on an infamous circuit in the car park of Caesar’s Palace.
Now though, you could certainly say the sport has hit the jackpot on a new 14-turn 6.1km circuit taking in the famous sights of the Strip.
“Iconic Las Vegas and Formula 1, the pinnacle of motorsport, is the perfect marriage of speed and glamour,” said Liberty chief Maffei.
“Our confidence in this unique opportunity is evident in our decision to assume the promoter role for the Las Vegas Grand Prix in partnership with Live Nation.
“We could not be more excited to work with our local partners to create a marquee event. The potential of Formula 1 has been well demonstrated over the last several seasons and the Las Vegas GP will only take it to the next level.”
Domenicali agreed, adding: “This is an incredible moment for Formula 1 that demonstrates the huge appeal and growth of our sport with a third race in the US.
“Las Vegas is a destination known around the world for its excitement, hospitality, thrills, and of course, the famous Strip.
“There is no better place for Formula 1 to race than in the global entertainment capital of the world and we cannot wait to be here next year. I want to thank everyone who helped deliver this event, especially Governor Sisolak, the Clark County Commission, Steve Hill at the LVCVA, and our local partners.”
It is expected the race will take place on Thanksgiving weekend in November 2023 with a unique schedule as the race will be brought forward to Saturday night, meaning an early Sunday morning start for the traditional European audience.
As a result, the Las Vegas GP will be the first non-Sunday race since South Africa in 1985.
