Tuesday 18th November 2025 11:45 GMT
It’s 21 down, three to go for Formula 1 in 2025, with the sport returning to the USA and the iconic Las Vegas Strip for the first of three consecutive race weekends that will conclude the season. Fans not only expect a spectacle but also a definitive conclusion to the thrilling fight for the Drivers’ Championship.
What’s Different in Vegas for F1’s Third Year?
Formula 1 races again under the bright neon lights of Las Vegas as the city merges with one of the world’s biggest sporting events. This year marks the third annual race and a late November slot before Thanksgiving has proven exceptionally successful, generating an economic impact worth $1.5 billion during the inaugural event, followed by revenues of $934 million last year. This makes it Vegas’ largest annual event.
Two years after the significant hype surrounding the inaugural event, F1 aims to establish lasting roots, having invested in land for the permanent pit building and the initial track. The race will occur on a familiar 3.8-mile, 17-turn street circuit that highlights iconic spots like The Venetian and the Bellagio fountains.
For 2025, the schedule has been modified; both qualifying and the Grand Prix are set for an 8 PM local start time. This adjustment aligns it with Singapore, F1’s long-standing night race, which is particularly favorable given the cooler evening temperatures Las Vegas experiences in late November.
The event will also feature F1 Academy, showcasing its inaugural support bill and marking a thrilling conclusion for its all-female season as Doriane Pin takes on Maya Weug for the title. Moreover, Vegas’ evolving hospitality offerings include cheaper tickets and music performances from headliners like Shaggy across various stages around the track.
Norris’ Title to Lose or Can Piastri Find a Response?
Lando Norris holds an advantageous 24-point lead in the Drivers’ Championship, following a flawless sequence of wins in Mexico City and Brazil. While he’s well-positioned to clinch his first title, the title race remains fierce. Should Oscar Piastri emerge victorious in Vegas, it could flip the standings, making this weekend crucial for both drivers.
Although Norris is in phenomenal form, he acknowledges that a mere 24-point gap isn’t a comfortable cushion. Piastri, on a disappointing run without a podium in five races, is eager to rebound, especially as McLaren’s performance on the Strip Circuit has yet to impress in previous outings.
As the Championship tightens, Norris aims for a first victory hat-trick of his career, strengthening his claim to the title. The drama unfolds in Vegas, where both competitors will strive to maximize their performances against the backdrop of one of the most electrifying settings in motorsport.
Will Verstappen Stay in Mathematical Hunt for at Least One More Week?
Max Verstappen may find himself on the outer edges of the championship race but remains mathematically in contention for yet another title. After victories in Monza, Baku, and Austin, his momentum was halted by Norris’ impressive performances. Sitting 49 points behind Norris, Verstappen faces a tall order to reclaim his championship reign.
Nevertheless, both Norris and the McLaren team are cautious about writing Verstappen off entirely, particularly after his impressive comeback drive at Interlagos. The math indicates that a top-two finish in Vegas would keep him in contention regardless of what Norris accomplishes.
As tensions rise, the championship could officially become an all-McLaren affair from Qatar if Norris manages to outperform Verstappen significantly in Vegas, sharpening the focus of this high-stakes race.
What Will Leclerc and Hamilton Say After Elkann’s Intervention?
Ferrari arrives in Vegas grappling with the unfamiliarity of fourth place in the Constructors’ Championship. Chairman John Elkann’s recent comments have amplified scrutiny on drivers Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, urging them to direct their energies towards results rather than media engagements.
With Ferrari trailing by a substantial margin, their performance in Vegas will be closely analyzed. Leclerc and Hamilton took to social media shortly after Elkann’s remarks to bolster their commitment to the team, and Thursday’s media sessions promise to shed light on their responses in real-time.
As they prepare for crucial races, the forthcoming discussions will undoubtedly center on team dynamics and how they plan to recover from their recent shortcomings. Insight into their strategies for improving performance and reclaiming competitiveness will be paramount as they face the challenging Las Vegas Grand Prix.
Formula 1’s thrilling title race continues with the Las Vegas Grand Prix this weekend, live on Sky Sports F1. Stream Sky Sports with NOW – no contract, cancel anytime