Charles Leclerc embraces Vegas Grand Prix, advocates for affordable fan access
- Rob Fleming
- 16 November 2023
In the lead-up to the Las Vegas Grand Prix, Ferrari's Charles Leclerc expressed contrasting views with Red Bull's Max Verstappen regarding the pre-race festivities.
Verstappen, labeling the spectacle as making him feel like a "clown," criticized the show-like atmosphere surrounding the event.
Despite Verstappen's reservations, Leclerc sees the potential benefits of such displays in attracting new fans to the sport. Acknowledging the extravagance, Leclerc emphasized the importance of preserving the sport's core DNA while seizing opportunities to engage a broader audience.
"It's a lot, but I think if you don't do that here, you don't do that anywhere," Leclerc remarked. "This could be potentially many more fans for the sport in the years to come. So I think it's great, what F1 has done until now."
However, the grandeur of the event raised concerns about accessibility. The cost of tickets faced criticism, leaving many fans priced out of attending the race. The pre-weekend ceremony witnessed unattended seats in the grandstands, with tickets still available on the eve of the Grand Prix event.
Leclerc addressed this issue, urging Formula 1 to prioritize affordable access for fans. "There's been many events now that are just incredibly expensive, and fans, real fans that really love the sport, can't even afford to get to the races and actually watch the races. So this is definitely an issue that has to be tackled."
As the new Las Vegas Grand Prix approaches, scheduled for the upcoming weekend, attention is also drawn to the unique features of the circuit. The 14-turn street circuit, spanning over six kilometres, promises top speeds of around 342 kilometres per hour on the long straight across the strip, challenging traditional powerhouses like Monza for average speeds.
In navigating the balance between spectacle and inclusivity, Formula 1 face the task of ensuring that the excitement of the Las Vegas Grand Prix doesn't come at the cost of excluding devoted fans. Leclerc's call for affordability serves as a reminder that the true essence of the sport lies not just in the glamour of the show, but in the collective experience of racing enthusiasts from all walks of life.
