The Las Vegas Formula 1 Grand Prix changes its schedule for the 2025 edition. Indeed, the race in Sin City will now start at 8:00 PM instead of 10:00 PM, two hours earlier than in previous editions.
The organizers justify this change with a desire to optimize the overall event experience. This adjustment is based on feedback, analyses, and the experience of the first two races, offering more opportunities for fans to explore the destination and engage a wider audience in the United States, explains Lori Nelson-Kraft, spokesperson for the Las Vegas Grand Prix.
This new schedule is aimed particularly at viewers on the American East Coast, who will now be able to watch the race at 11:00 PM on Saturday, instead of 1:00 AM on Sunday. A change that should promote better media exposure and a larger audience in this strategic region for F1.
For the stables, this modification represents a significant logistical advantage. With the race ending earlier, the teams will have more time to handle media obligations and prepare for their departure to the last two races of the season in Qatar and Abu Dhabi. An important aspect considering the intensity of this triple end-of-season schedule.
What this means for French fans
French fans will need to rearrange their schedule to follow the entire race weekend. The Grand Prix will start on Sunday at 5:00 a.m. (French time), while the qualifying sessions will be held at the same time on Saturday.
For the most passionate fans wanting to follow the free practice sessions, they will need to be particularly early. The first and third free practice sessions will start at 1:30 am on Friday and Saturday, respectively. A schedule reminiscent of the Asian Grand Prix, but with the advantage of taking place over the weekend.
This schedule revision could actually benefit some French and European fans in general. By starting earlier, the race will allow spectators to enjoy the rest of their Sunday, unlike previous editions where the 7:00 AM start encroached more on the morning.
Local repercussions sparking debate
This change nevertheless raises concerns at the local level. Lisa Mayo-DeRiso, spokesperson for several businesses in Las Vegas, criticizes a lack of consultation: « They haven’t spoken with any of our business leaders. I believe there should be transparency and openness in this process, which has not been the case so far », she stated on the local channel 8 News Now Las Vegas. Indeed, some establishments, already affected by previous editions, fear that earlier road closures could worsen their situation.
Despite these controversies, the Las Vegas Grand Prix remains a major event for F1 and the city. With an estimated economic impact of $1.5 billion for the 2023 edition, the event has established itself as a must-attend event in the region and on the championship calendar.
