Our third and final trip to the USA this year takes us to the vibrant Las Vegas for the highly anticipated 2024 Las Vegas Grand Prix. Known as the entertainment capital of the world, Formula 1 is set to take center stage this weekend.

Uncover the Statistical Wonders of the Las Vegas Grand Prix

Las Vegas Strip Circuit Length

The Las Vegas Strip Circuit measures an impressive 6.201 kilometers, making it the second-longest track on the entire calendar. It aspires to claim the top spot by finding a few more city blocks to loop around, coming close to Spa-Francorchamps' 7.004km distance. This length showcases the unique layout and scale of the circuit.Just imagine the speed and precision required as drivers navigate this elongated track. It adds an extra layer of challenge and excitement to the race, with each corner and straight presenting a different test of skill.

Start Time and Local Time

With lights out at 10pm (2200) local time in Vegas, this Grand Prix comfortably holds the title for the latest-starting race of the season. The next closest are Saudi Arabia and Singapore, which both start at 8pm local. This late start gives the city a unique atmosphere, with the lights of Las Vegas adding to the spectacle.It's not just about the race itself but also the build-up and anticipation that comes with a late-starting event. The fans get to enjoy the vibrant energy of the city before the race begins, creating a one-of-a-kind experience.

Number of Turns

The Las Vegas Strip Circuit features 17 turns, with 6 to the right and 11 to the left. This diverse turn configuration adds to the complexity and excitement of the race. Drivers must be highly adaptable to handle these different turns and make split-second decisions.It's a testament to the design of the circuit that it can accommodate such a variety of turns while still providing a thrilling racing experience. Each turn has its own characteristics and challenges, making every lap a new adventure.

Pole Position Statistics

An Argentine racer has been on pole in Las Vegas 33.333% of the time. Although this might seem like a heavily skewed statistic due to the limited number of F1 races in the city (only three so far), it still holds significance. The first pole came in 1981 when Carlos Reutemann took pole for Williams at the 1981 Caesars Palace GP. This sets the stage for the current and future races, with expectations high for another Argentine to claim pole position.It shows the historical significance and potential for success in Las Vegas. The competition among the drivers is fierce, and the opportunity to be on pole is a major goal for many.

Run from Pole to Turn 1

The run from pole position to the Turn 1 braking point is just 112m, making it the second shortest of the year. This short distance requires drivers to accelerate quickly and make precise adjustments. It's a crucial part of the race, where every millisecond counts.Imagine the pressure on the drivers as they approach Turn 1 after a blistering start from pole. They need to have perfect timing and control to make the turn safely and maintain their momentum.

Overtakes in the 2023 Race

The 2023 Las Vegas GP produced 82 overtakes, the most of any circuit during its debut race and the most of any dry race last season. Only the Dutch GP was able to boast more passes last season. This shows the competitiveness and excitement of the race, with drivers constantly vying for position.The ability to make overtakes is a key aspect of Formula 1, and Las Vegas proved to be a track where drivers could showcase their overtaking skills. It added to the drama and entertainment value of the event.

Run from Turn 12 to Turn 14

The run from Turn 12 to Turn 14 takes drivers down Las Vegas Boulevard past all the famous hotels and casinos. However, they'll hardly have time to take a look as this section of the circuit is 1.9km long and is taken entirely flat out, with cars hitting 350 km/h (217 mph).It's a thrilling stretch of the track that combines speed and spectacle. The drivers have to focus completely on maintaining their speed and handling while passing by the iconic landmarks of Las Vegas.

Tracks in the USA

The Las Vegas Strip Circuit became the 12th track to have held a World Championship round in the USA when it joined the calendar last year. The sport has also visited Sebring, Riverside, Watkins Glen, Phoenix, Long Beach, Caesars Palace, Dallas, Detroit, Indianapolis, Austin, Miami, and Las Vegas. Each track has its own unique characteristics and history.It's a testament to the popularity and significance of Formula 1 in the USA. These tracks have hosted some of the most memorable races in the sport's history, and Las Vegas is now part of that legacy.

Distance to the Next Race

After Vegas, we pack up and head straight for Qatar, making it the longest distance between two consecutive races this year. Roughly 13030 km/8096 miles separate the Las Vegas Strip Circuit from the Lusail International Circuit. This long journey adds to the excitement and anticipation for the next race.It's a logistical challenge for the teams and drivers, but it also gives them time to rest and prepare for the next challenge. The distance between the races adds to the overall experience of the season.