The last time F1 raced on a Saturday was the 1985 South African Grand Prix at Kyalami, but the pull of hosting the sport in Las Vegas will see the Strip closed down for a prime-time US evening slot. Live coverage for European audiences will be in the early hours of Sunday morning.
F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali says the event fits with the sport’s desire to be in destination cities, as it will race through the most famous section of Las Vegas.
“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,” Domenicali said. “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.”
Formula 1 and owner Liberty Media will be joint promoters of the race, in partnership with Live Nation Entertainment and the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA); a unique set-up compared to most races on the calendar.