The 2023 F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix marks a significant return to the city after a hiatus of four decades since the last Caesars Palace Grand Prix held in 1982. Unlike the previous race, this event promises to be a spectacular spectacle, as it will feature Formula 1 cars racing down the renowned Las Vegas Strip.
Scheduled as the penultimate round of the 2023 season, the Las Vegas Grand Prix will take place on the challenging Las Vegas Strip Circuit. This circuit boasts a lengthy 3.85-mile track with 17 corners, ranking second in length only to Spa-Francorchamps. The race is set to cover 50 laps of this demanding circuit.
The circuit’s layout incorporates some of Las Vegas’s most iconic landmarks into its backdrop, including the new Sphere. Given that it’s a night race, the city’s vibrant neon lights will add to the visual spectacle. However, there have been concerns about street fixtures, notably manhole covers, posing challenges. During a practice session, Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz encountered an issue when a concrete surround to a manhole cover became dislodged, damaging his car and prematurely ending the session.
The circuit design comprises a short run from the starting line to the initial corner, a tight left-hander followed by a series of flowing corners that lead to two extended straights and two designated DRS zones. The second sector emphasizes speed, with drivers accelerating out of Turn 9 and tackling a sharp left turn leading to the second straight along the iconic Strip, which includes the second DRS zone. Following this, a narrow chicane at Turns 14, 15, and 16 awaits before returning to the main straight.
Simulations indicate that drivers will need to maintain full throttle for nearly 80% of a lap, with top speeds estimated to reach around 212 mph, second only to those seen at Italy’s Monza track.
The ideal car setup for this race involves balancing high top speed with sufficient mechanical grip and downforce for the low-speed corners. Pirelli has designated its softest tire compounds for the event: the C3 as the white hard, the C4 as the yellow medium, and the C5 as the red soft. The night race format introduces the potential for changing ambient and track temperatures, which can impact tire grip levels.
While Red Bull Racing and their star driver Max Verstappen have already secured the championship, Verstappen remains determined to add to his impressive record. He currently holds the record for the most wins in a single season, standing at 17 victories ahead of the Las Vegas Grand Prix.
Heading into the qualifying session on Saturday and Sunday’s race, Verstappen leads the 2023 Drivers’ Championship with 524 points. His teammate, Sergio Perez, follows in second place with 258 points, while Lewis Hamilton of Mercedes-Benz AMG is in third with 226 points. In the Constructors’ Championship, Red Bull Racing holds a commanding lead with 782 points, followed by Mercedes in second with 382 points and Ferrari in third with 362 points.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Las Vegas Grand Prix
What is the significance of the 2023 F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix?
The 2023 F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix marks a significant return to the city after a four-decade hiatus since the last race in 1982. It promises to be a spectacular night race on the iconic Las Vegas Strip Circuit.
Tell me about the Las Vegas Strip Circuit.
The Las Vegas Strip Circuit is the track where the Grand Prix will take place. It’s a 3.85-mile long street circuit with 17 corners, second in length only to Spa-Francorchamps. It offers a unique backdrop with famous city landmarks and vibrant neon lights.
What challenges do drivers face on this circuit?
Drivers face several challenges on this circuit, including a mix of tight and flowing corners, two long straights with designated DRS zones, and a narrow chicane. Manhole covers have also proven to be an issue, as one dislodged during a practice session.
What can we expect in terms of speed?
Simulations suggest that drivers will need to use full throttle for nearly 80% of a lap, with top speeds estimated at around 212 mph, second only to Monza.
What tire compounds are being used?
Pirelli has nominated its softest tire compounds for the event: C3 as the white hard, C4 as the yellow medium, and C5 as the red soft.
Who is leading in the Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championships?
Max Verstappen of Red Bull Racing leads the 2023 Drivers’ Championship with 524 points, aiming to set a record with his 18th win. Red Bull Racing also leads the Constructors’ Championship with 782 points.
When does the race take place?
The race is scheduled for this weekend as the penultimate round of the 2023 season.
More about Las Vegas Grand Prix
- Official Formula 1 Website
- Las Vegas Grand Prix Event Information
- Las Vegas Strip Circuit Details
- Pirelli Tire Compounds
- Max Verstappen’s Record
4 comments
Manhole covers causing trouble, that’s cray! Safety first, folks!
Las Vegas Strip Circuit, so cool, like a video game. Go Max, get that win!
Wow, this race sounds amazin! I heard Verstappen’s gonna break a record. Can’t wait 2 c it!
Verstappen on fire! He’s got this championship in the bag. Red Bull all the way!