Las Vegas is gearing up for its first Formula One race since the 1980s. Unlike the hot weather conditions experienced last time, teams are now preparing for chilly air, with hundreds of thousands of fans expected to attend. The temperatures will play a significant role in the Saturday evening Grand Prix, requiring teams to adjust their preparations.
According to Outkick writer Mattew Reigle, this race is likely to be one of the coolest of the season. While cooler conditions provide more grip for drivers, it also means cooler tires and, consequently, less grip. Reigle predicts that the initial corners may become more intense, posing a challenge for drivers at the front.
Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton, a Formula One race car driver, believes this is one of the coldest races he has ever competed in. His teammate, George Russel, expects the track to be about 15 degrees colder than previous races, resulting in different reactions from engines and cars.
The 1978 Canadian Grand Prix holds the record for the coldest Formula One race in history, with temperatures dropping to 41 degrees Fahrenheit. In a recent practice session, damage was caused to two cars due to a faulty manhole cover, prompting frustration from Ferrari team boss Frederic Vasseur.
Las Vegas officials mapped out 23 different circuit configurations before settling on the 3.8-mile, 17-turn route for this weekend’s race. Liberty Media, the owners of Formula One, have shown interest in making a long-term investment in Las Vegas, including the purchase of land for the start/finish line.
Stunning nighttime satellite imagery of the Las Vegas Strip, the city, and the race course has been captured by Maxar Technologies. Additionally, the Honda team’s car holds the record for the fastest-ever Formula One car, reaching a speed of 246.9 mph on the Bonneville Salt Flats. The land speed record for Formula One, 256.8 mph, was set by Alan van der Merwe in a modified Honda car during testing in the Mojave Desert.
Las Vegas is eagerly anticipating its Formula One race, with teams and fans preparing for the unique challenge of chilly conditions on the track.