Streets Of Las Vegas

The Las Vegas Strip Circuit, located in Paradise, Nevada, adjacent to the city of Las Vegas, is a state-of-the-art street circuit that opened on November 16, 2023. Designed by renowned architect Carsten Tilke, this FIA Grade 1 circuit was purpose-built to host Formula 1 Grand Prix races.

Track Layout

The circuit measures 3.853 miles (6.201 km) in length and follows a counterclockwise direction. It features 17 turns, including a hairpin turn at the first corner. The longest straight stretch, approximately 1.2 miles (1.9 km), runs along the iconic Las Vegas Strip, allowing cars to reach top speeds potentially exceeding 212 mph. The circuit incorporates two DRS (Drag Reduction System) zones.

The track incorporates parts of the Las Vegas Strip (Las Vegas Boulevard), passing by famous landmarks such as the MSG Sphere, Caesars Palace, Bellagio, and the Venetian. The pit and paddock area, including a permanent part of the circuit, is built on a former parking lot purchased by Formula 1.

Technical Specifications

The circuit features an asphalt surface, with the streets repaved to ensure a smooth racing experience. The track width meets the minimum requirement of 40 feet throughout the circuit. The construction of the Las Vegas Strip Circuit is estimated to have cost around $500 million.

Racing History

The Las Vegas Strip Circuit was added to the Formula 1 calendar in 2023. The inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix, held on November 18, 2023, was won by Max Verstappen. Prior to this, Las Vegas had hosted Formula 1 races in 1981 and 1982 at Caesars Palace, which featured a temporary street circuit in the hotel's parking lot.

Notable Events

In addition to the Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix, the circuit hosts other prestigious events such as the F1 Academy (starting in 2025) and the Ferrari Challenge North America (since 2024).

Circuit Features

The Las Vegas Strip Circuit is designed for high-speed racing, with average speeds expected to be similar to the iconic Monza circuit. The 1.2-mile straight on the Las Vegas Strip allows cars to run flat out, providing a thrilling spectacle for spectators. Adding to the excitement, the race is held at night under the dazzling lights of the Las Vegas Strip.

The $500 million, 300,000-square-foot Formula 1 Pit Building provides viewing platforms and a large video screen, enhancing the overall experience for fans and teams alike.

Interesting Facts

Formula 1 purchased land for $240 million to construct the pit and paddock area. The circuit design underwent 31 variations before the final version was agreed upon. The Las Vegas Grand Prix marks the return of Formula 1 to Las Vegas after a hiatus since the Caesars Palace Grand Prix in the early 1980s.

The construction of the circuit required significant logistical efforts, including repaving roads and installing infrastructure. The Las Vegas Strip Circuit is the only Formula 1 circuit in North America built on city streets that are drivable during the day.

In 1981, Alan Jones won the Caesars Palace Grand Prix, and Nelson Piquet secured the Driver's Championship. In 1982, Michele Alboreto won, and Keke Rosberg secured the title. Oscar Piastri set the lap record of 1:35.490 in 2023 during the inaugural race.