Last updated: 19/11/2025

The Las Vegas GP is still young, but it’s already become a cultural and commercial heavyweight in the world of Formula 1. To understand where F1 Las Vegas might go next, it’s worth taking a quick look back at how it started, who’s won, and how Liberty Media’s showpiece event could evolve in the years ahead. Here’s a breakdown of its history and four major predictions for the Formula 1 Las Vegas race in 2026 and beyond.

A Brief History: How the Las Vegas GP Became F1’s Entertainment Powerhouse

The concept of an F1 race in Las Vegas isn’t entirely new. In fact, the city previously hosted Grands Prix in the early 1980s, when drivers raced down a strip-like portion of the city. But after that era faded, Las Vegas re-entered F1’s spotlight decades later, this time with a far more glamorous and ambitious plan.

When Liberty Media announced the return of F1 Las Vegas, it wasn’t just about adding another Grand Prix; it was about redefining what a race weekend could be. Las Vegas was chosen to inject entertainment, spectacle, and elite hospitality into F1’s American footprint.

Past Winners: Who’s Already Taken the Checkered Flag in Vegas

Though the Las Vegas Grand Prix is relatively new, it has already produced memorable races:

• 2023: First modern-era Las Vegas GP — Winner: Max Verstappen
• 2024: Strong showing by Mercedes — Winner: George Russell

These early results set the tone: top-tier teams and drivers show up to win, but the real story is what’s happening off the track. The Las Vegas GP isn’t just another stop in the championship – it’s a major event that sells out, draws celebrities, and generates global media value.

What Has Made the Las Vegas GP Such a Success

Several factors have contributed to the over-the-top appeal of the Las Vegas GP:

• Night racing: A rare Formula 1 spectacle under neon lights.
• Entertainment integration: Concerts, brand activations, and celebrity events all week long.
• Hospitality: Luxury suites, casino-hosted packages, and high-value Paddock Club passes.
• Media reach: Massive YouTube, social, and broadcast engagement.
• Tourism synergy: Las Vegas is already built for big spenders, and F1 fits naturally into that ecosystem.

That success has laid a strong foundation – and now, we look ahead.

Related reading: 2025 Las Vegas Grand Prix Weekend: Ultimate Guide

Predictions for F1 Las Vegas in 2026 & Beyond

Here are some informed projections for the future of the Las Vegas Grand Prix:

1. Continued Contract Extension & Bigger Strategic Role

Liberty Media likely sees Las Vegas as more than just another race – it’s their flagship U.S. event. We can expect contract extensions well beyond 2026, with potential renegotiations that give F1 greater control over city properties, brand partnership rights, and race-week programming. Vegas could become one of the most strategically important races on the calendar.

2. Evolution of the Track Layout

Critics and drivers have voiced concerns over the current layout, which some say prioritises spectacle over racing. By 2026, we may see subtle changes, tighter corners, improved runoff areas, and reprofiled sections to boost overtaking. These tweaks would maintain the glamorous “Vegas feel” while improving racing quality and on-track drama.

3. Even More Premium Hospitality & Entertainment

The demand for ultra-luxury at the Las Vegas GP will continue to grow. Expect:

• Expanded Paddock Club and rooftop suites
• More bespoke experiences: celebrity meet-and-greets, brand-hosted parties
• VIP “F1 Week” packages combining hotels, suites, and nightlife
• Official F1 entertainment partners producing large opening/closing ceremonies

This will reinforce Vegas as the most high-end, premium race on the F1 calendar.

4. Deeper Integration with Casinos & Resort Brands

Casinos like MGM, Caesars, and Wynn may take even more ownership in the race weekend. Rather than just hosting, they could become race partners, creating exclusive experiences only accessible via casino membership or high-stakes hospitality bookings. More branded corners or even “casino-sponsored zones” might become part of the Las Vegas Grand Prix fabric.

5. Sustainability Pressure & Innovation

Las Vegas may face sustainability scrutiny given its energy use, water needs, and nighttime lighting. By 2026, F1 and its partners will likely promote greener initiatives:

• More efficient lighting systems
• Use of sustainable event infrastructure
• Promotion of sustainable fuels or hybrid tech
• Partnerships with green tech or renewable energy firms

These moves will be vital to balancing the glamorous image with social responsibility.

6. Fan Experience Optimization

To keep fan sentiment positive (especially among non-VIP attendees), F1 might improve:

• Transit and shuttle options during race week
• Viewing areas with different price points
• Enhanced fan zones on the Strip
• Additional on-track access or interactive raceweek activations

This will make the event more inclusive while preserving the premium image.

7. Increased Influencer & Celebrity Programming

Vegas will likely double down on its celebrity draw. Expect:

• More structured influencer partnerships
• High-profile brand activations featuring personalities from entertainment, fashion, and sports
• Official celebrity-hosted events as part of F1 Week
• Cross-scale content deals (Instagram, TikTok, YouTube) built around the Formula 1 Las Vegas weekend

This drives both social engagement and commercial revenue.

8. New Sponsorship Trends

As the Las Vegas GP solidifies its status, new types of sponsors will gravitate toward it:

• Luxury lifestyle brands (watches, fashion)
• High-tech companies
• Non-endemic “destination” sponsors like hospitality, travel, and entertainment brands
• Even more use of local Las Vegas-based corporate partners

These partnerships will drive more exclusive, high-margin collaboration models.

Risks & Challenges Ahead

While the future is bright, there are potential risks:

• Fan fatigue: If prices continue to rise, casual fans may be priced out.
• Local backlash: Noise, road closures, and disruption could create grass-roots resistance.
• Sustainability critique: Environmental concerns could lead to regulation or criticism.
• Sport vs spectacle conflict: If racing becomes a sideshow, purist fans may turn away.

Final Thoughts

The Las Vegas GP is already more than just a race – it’s a spectacle, a luxury brand, and a beacon of F1’s Americanisation strategy. Looking ahead to 2026 and beyond, the race’s role in the Formula 1 calendar will likely expand and deepen, with bigger hospitality, celebrity integration, and sustainable innovation.

Vegas has all the ingredients to be F1’s long-term business model for “destination GPs.” If handled right, the Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix may not just stay, but become the benchmark for elite racing events around the world.

FAQ

Q: Will the Las Vegas GP remain a part of the F1 calendar after 2026?
A: Highly likely. Given its business value, strategic importance, and popularity, the contract will probably be extended or renegotiated on very favorable terms.

Q: Will ticket and suite prices go up further?
A: Demand is strong, so prices for premium experiences will likely continue rising. However, F1 might also introduce more mid-tier options to improve fan access.

Q: How might F1 make the Las Vegas GP more sustainable?
A: By using greener lighting, advocating for sustainable fuel, and partnering with eco-conscious firms to reduce the environmental footprint of race week.

Q: Could the track layout change?
A: Yes. Expect tweaks for better racing – more corners, more overtaking, and improved safety without losing Vegas’ iconic look and feel.