What makes the Las Vegas Grand Prix special – and why you should see it

The Las Vegas Grand Prix is a modern classic. There's nothing quite like Vegas, with its high-speed street circuit, neon lights and party atmosphere.

Since joining the F1 calendar in 2023, the Las Vegas Strip Circuit has played host to plenty of unforgettable moments already – from track battles to title victories.

The event continues to grow, so let's take a look at just some of the reasons why Las Vegas is so captivating.

Sport and spectacle

The Las Vegas Grand Prix takes place under lights on closed city roads, but those neon-soaked streets run through one of the most recognisable backdrops in the world.

With average speeds similar to Monza, otherwise known as F1’s ‘Temple of Speed’, the circuit is rapid too. Vegas offers high-speed, wheel-to-wheel racing at night, with heavy braking zones and overtaking opportunities, plus barriers close by just waiting to punish any mistake.

Las Vegas brings together dramatic on-track action, a fantastic atmosphere, and unforgettable off-track entertainment. While the show is spectacular (it is Vegas after all), it's a proper sporting challenge.

When is the 2026 Las Vegas Grand Prix?

The 2026 Las Vegas Grand Prix weekend begins on Thursday 19 November, with F1 cars hitting the track for the first two Free Practice sessions, before Free Practice 3 and Qualifying take place on Friday 20 November. The Grand Prix itself is on Saturday 21 November, at 2000 local time.

Check out the RACE HUB to see when each F1 session starts in your local time zone, wherever you are in the world.

Why we love the Las Vegas Strip Circuit

Located in the heart of Las Vegas, the 6.2km, 17-turn street circuit winds its way past iconic locations like Caesars Palace, the Bellagio and the Venetian.

As mentioned, with average speeds similar to Monza, the lap in Vegas is quick and provides plenty of action and overtaking.

With the party atmosphere the resort city is famous for, a gripping night race under the lights and thrilling entertainment off-track to match the action on it, fans are treated to a dazzling display of speed and entertainment at one of the most unique tracks on the calendar.

The weekend schedule is full of action and there's plenty to look forward to every day, with F1 Free Practice, Qualifying and the Grand Prix all supported by other categories – including the finale of the F1 ACADEMY season. That means even more opportunities to see cars on track.

There’s fantastic live entertainment, enthusiastic support and a superb atmosphere.

During the day there's the stacked F1 Fanzone too, with activities, entertainment, and the chance to see drivers and team representatives live on stage.

Formula 1 takes over Las Vegas when in town, and at its heart is an incredible opportunity to experience F1 cars blasting around a high-speed circuit set against one of the most vibrant backdrops in the sport.

Memorable moments in Las Vegas

The streets of Las Vegas have served up some unforgettable moments throughout the years since first hosting an F1 weekend in 2023.

Here’s a selection to whet your appetite for more…

2023 – A thrilling race first race on Saturday night saw a nail-biting battle for the lead between the Red Bulls of Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez and Ferrari's Charles Leclerc. The Dutchman held on for victory, but a last-lap overtake saw Leclerc pounce on Perez to take P2.

2024 – Verstappen hit the jackpot on the Strip, securing his fourth World Championship crown in a tense race that saw George Russell and Lewis Hamilton scored a 1-2 for Mercedes.

2025 – Thrills, spills and a dramatic post-race twist saw McLaren's Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri disqualified, meaning Verstappen's victory closed the gap at the top of the Drivers' Championship to just 24 points with two rounds remaining.

How can I watch the Las Vegas Grand Prix?

Nothing beats being there! Head to F1 Tickets to secure your place and catch all the action in person. F1 Experiences has a great range of premium ticket packages too, getting you closer to Formula 1 than ever before.

For details of the broadcaster in your area, click here.

You can also watch the drama unfold via F1 TV Pro (in selected countries only).