The Formula 1 calendar is always a spectacle, but the Las Vegas Grand Prix stands out, and for Mercedes-Benz fans, it’s an event circled in red. Known as the Las Vegas Strip Circuit, this high-speed track promises an unforgettable experience as Lewis Hamilton and George Russell navigate their Mercedes-AMG Petronas cars through the dazzling heart of the City of Lights. Imagine the roar of the engines echoing past iconic landmarks like the Venetian, Caesars Palace, and the mesmerizing Sphere – that’s the thrill awaiting Mercedes-Benz in Las Vegas across 50 intense laps.
Last year’s race in Vegas already provided a taste of the speed, with George Russell clocking a staggering 343.8km/h (213mph) in the speed trap. This blistering pace is just shy of the speeds seen at Monza, the legendary “Temple of Speed,” earlier in the season, highlighting just how fast this Las Vegas circuit truly is. For Mercedes-Benz, optimizing car setup for such velocity while maintaining control through technical corners is paramount.
The Las Vegas Strip Circuit presents a unique challenge. Its 17 corners and three long straights demand a versatile car setup. Adding to the complexity is the track surface itself. Being open to public traffic for much of the day, the circuit starts with low grip levels. However, this also means track evolution will be significant as more laps are completed. The addition of support series this year is a welcome change, promising to lay down crucial extra grip, something the Mercedes-Benz engineers will be closely monitoring to refine their race strategy.
Adding to the unique atmosphere, all Formula 1 sessions, including the main race, are held in the evening under the vibrant Las Vegas floodlights. This evening schedule translates to cooler air and track temperatures, factors that will influence tire management and overall car performance for Mercedes-Benz. While there have been some schedule adjustments since the inaugural race last year, it’s crucial for fans to note the race start time: 22:00 local time on Saturday (06:00 GMT Sunday). Set your alarms and prepare for a Saturday night spectacle!
While the modern Las Vegas Grand Prix is a recent revival, racing in Las Vegas has historical roots. Formula 1 previously visited in 1981 and 1982 for the Caesars Palace Grand Prix. This return to Vegas, with a circuit layout chosen from over 30 initial designs, marks a significant chapter in F1 and Mercedes-Benz’s racing history. The Mercedes-Benz team will be eager to build upon last year’s experience and aim for a strong performance under the bright lights of Las Vegas.
