Las Vegas Grand Prix: Full Breakdown of the Controversial F1 Street Circuit

The Las Vegas Grand Prix returns this week with a 6.2-kilometer, 17-turn street circuit through the heart of Sin City. This is the first time Formula 1 will race in Las Vegas since the 1982 event, which took place in a parking lot at Caesars Palace. This time, the circuit will pass through some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Designed by Tilke Engineers & Architects, founded by former racing driver Hermann Tilke, the layout was created by his son, Carsten Tilke. Known for designing several F1 tracks, including the Red Bull Ring and Circuit of the Americas, the younger Tilke brings his expertise to this high-speed, thrilling track.

The Las Vegas Strip Circuit – Track Layout

The new Las Vegas street circuit is an anticlockwise, 6.201-kilometer track with 17 turns and a 1.92-kilometer straight. This makes it one of the fastest circuits on the F1 calendar, with speeds comparable to Italy’s Autodromo Nazionale Monza. Drivers will begin at the start/finish line, located on a former parking lot purchased by Formula 1 for $240 million. This area has been transformed into a cutting-edge pit and paddock complex.

The drivers will then race down Koval Lane, experiencing a 1-kilometer straight leading to a hard braking zone at Westchester Drive (turn 5). After navigating turns 6 through 9, which circle the newly opened MSG Sphere, drivers will speed down Sands Avenue, passing the Venetian hotel and reaching a long straight that takes them along the iconic Las Vegas Strip.

Between turns 12 and 14, drivers will race down a 1.92-kilometer straight offering stunning views of the Strip, including landmarks such as the Bellagio Fountains and the Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas. From there, the circuit continues down East Harmon Avenue, taking drivers through turns 14 to 17 before looping back to the start/finish line.

Track Information

Number of laps: 50
Number of corners: 17
Number of straights: 3
Number of DRS zones: 2
Track length: 6.201 km
Race distance: 310.05 km
Top speed: 212 mph

Controversial Construction and Local Impact

The construction of the Las Vegas F1 circuit has sparked controversy among locals, many of whom are frustrated by the disruption caused to the city. The construction cost is estimated at $500 million, and the event is projected to bring in over $1 billion in economic benefits. However, many locals feel the negative impact on their daily lives outweighs these benefits.

One of the most iconic attractions, the Bellagio Fountains, has been particularly affected. Trees in front of the fountains have been cut down to make room for grandstands, blocking public access to the view. Additionally, both the Bellagio Fountain and the Mirage Volcano shows will be temporarily closed during the F1 event. To accommodate special guests, the water in front of the Venetian has been drained to create a special viewing platform.

Pedestrian Bridges and Public Frustration

The construction of temporary pedestrian bridges and barriers has also been a major point of contention. Some locals believe the barriers were installed to prevent people from getting a free view of the race. In response, several pedestrian bridges have been equipped with barriers and films, further obstructing the view of the track. This move has sparked widespread frustration, as many residents feel these restrictions are an unnecessary imposition on the city’s famous landscape.

To alleviate some of the issues, three temporary pedestrian bridges have been installed to help people navigate the Strip during the race. However, for many locals, these measures do little to make up for the disruption. Traffic congestion has worsened significantly due to the construction, leading many residents to believe that the entire F1 event is more trouble than it’s worth.

The Economic Boost and Global Attention

Despite the local backlash, the Las Vegas Grand Prix is expected to be a massive draw for both fans and tourists alike. The event promises to bring in a substantial economic boost to the city, with hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues expected to benefit from the influx of visitors. The international attention on Las Vegas as a host city for one of the most prestigious events in motorsport will likely cement its place on the F1 calendar for years to come.

Yet, while the economic prospects are promising, the tension between the event organizers and local residents continues to grow. Many Las Vegas locals are eagerly awaiting the conclusion of the race, hoping for a swift return to normalcy. Whether the Las Vegas Grand Prix becomes a beloved annual event or a one-time spectacle that left the city divided remains to be seen.

Source: https://www.gpfans.com/en/f1-news/1007712/f1-las-vegas-grand-prix-track-details/