Las Vegas F1 Grand Prix preparations continue amid ‘shakedown attempt to block views of the circuit over licensing rights’

Progression of the long-awaited Formula 1 course through Las Vegas is continuing to build ahead of the inaugural race in late November. 

The viewing spectacle will come to life on November 16 through to race day on November 18. Now, construction continues in preparation for the much-hyped event less than four months away. 

F1 Las Vegas’ official Twitter account posted an update displaying the completed framing which will hold the ‘larger-than-life LED screen’ set to be positioned atop the paddock. 

The 3.8-mile race will include several of Vegas’ many landmarks, including the Bellagio fountains, Mandalay Bay, Caesars Palace, and the new ball-shaped MSG Sphere.

Unlike other F1 races, Vegas’ will take place on Saturday evening as opposed to Sunday afternoon, when most events typically take place.

Formula 1 Las Vegas revealed construction on its framing for the LED screen was completed

The inaugural  Las Vegas Grand Prix will send drivers 50 times around a 3.8-mile circuit 

A general view as the car of Sergio Perez of Mexico and Red Bull is moved into position during the Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix 2023 launch party on November 5

F1 has been granted permission to run the Las Vegas Grand Prix on the city’s famed Strip until the year 2032.

Restaurants and clubs along the circuit have learned F1 is charging at least $1,500 per person at venues along the racetrack for licensing rights during the Grand Prix, according to the New York Post. 

‘They are literally shaking people down saying they will obstruct views unless they pay them,’ a source told the outlet. 

‘It seems insane that they are asking money for a public event that is taking place in the streets.’

If owners decide to decline the reported request by F1 they may reportedly be met with ‘barricades, stands and light stanchions’ in the way of their track view. 

‘Las Vegas Grand Prix will use reasonable efforts to maintain sightedness from licensee’s venue to the track/race,’ the F1 overview proposal said, per the Post. 

Those looking to attend the race are unlikely to do so cheaply. In a city known for its ability to burn a hole in one’s wallet, packages are available to do that – and more. 

In December, Caesars Entertainment revealed its ‘Emperor Package,’ which costs a whopping $5 million.

George Russell drives during a demonstration along the Las Vegas Strip at a launch party for the Formula One Las Vegas Grand Prix on Saturday, November 5, 2022

The package includes: a dozen Paddock Club passes throughout race week, tickets to see Adele in concert at Caesars Palace, five nights in a 4,700-square-foot terrace suite overlooking the racetrack, around-the-clock butler service, use of a chauffeur-driven Rolls-Royce, and a private meal with Michelin-starred chef Nobu Matsuhisa.

The race in Vegas is expected to be the most expensive sporting event on Formula One’s agenda. Prices start at $500 for a three-day general admission pass. 

Those seats were only added after fans complained that hotels planned to purchase massive ticket blocks and repackage them into entertainment experiences ranging from $100,000 to $1 million.