F1 exceeds Las Vegas expectations as Verstappen wins one of the most competitive races of the season

Max Verstappen initially detested everything about the Las Vegas Grand Prix upon his arrival in Sin City. The reigning Formula One champion disapproved of the excessive opulence that seemed to overshadow the essence of racing. However, after securing his 18th win of the season, Verstappen dramatically shifted his perspective.

As he crossed under the checkered flag, waved by Justin Bieber, Verstappen joyfully sang, “Viva Las Vegas! Viva Las Vegas!” Despite his earlier criticisms of the spectacle, he had raced in an Elvis-inspired firesuit and claimed victory on the iconic Las Vegas Strip.

Contrary to his earlier sentiments, Verstappen, now in high spirits, commented, “I hope everyone enjoyed it; we definitely did. Excited to come back here next year and try to do something similar.” He admitted that the race had turned out to be enjoyable, marking a significant change from his initial stance.

Verstappen's victory involved passing Charles Leclerc at the start and overcoming a penalty to pass him once more with 13 laps remaining, showcasing his continued dominance throughout the season. The podium finishers, Verstappen, Leclerc, and Sergio Perez, were chauffeured in a limousine to a stage near the Bellagio, where, instead of heading to a nightclub as Verstappen suggested, they witnessed the casino’s renowned fountain show.

Despite the earlier criticism of the event's emphasis on extravagance, the post-race celebration included a New Year’s Eve-style fireworks display over the Strip. DJ Martin Garrix entertained the crowd, which included celebrities like Brad Pitt, Rihanna, Usain Bolt, and Shaquille O’Neal. The event claimed to have drawn over 315,000 spectators, estimating an economic impact of $1.2 billion to Las Vegas.

Charles Leclerc, who had also expressed disappointment earlier in the week, admitted, “I really enjoyed it, and I am especially happy that we finished the weekend on a high note because it was hurting me to see the sport that I love so much starting so wrong on Thursday.”

Despite the initial challenges, the Las Vegas Grand Prix turned out to be one of the most spirited events of the season, earning praise for the raciness of the track layout. The race also helped Ferrari cut its deficit to Mercedes in the constructor championship, setting the stage for an exciting finale in Abu Dhabi.