Upgrades to the 2024 Las Vegas Grand Prix: A Comparison to Last Year's Event

Formula 1 races are big events for our best sports betting sites and their host cities. 

The Formula 1 Grand Prix is returning to Las Vegas again this year after becoming the most lucrative event in the city’s history, with a net economic impact of $1.5 billion last year. This week, the event returns for a second run in the town, sparking mixed opinions on how it will fare against the previous year. Let’s look at all of the changes coming into play for LVGP 2024.

F1 parent company Liberty Media is believed to have spent around $1 billion promoting last year’s event, which featured musical acts, a drone show, and a massive sphere on the Las Vegas Strip that flicked through pictures of popular racers. Many anticipated failure after the previous Caesars Palace Grand Prix in the 1980s flopped after just two years. But the 2023 event ended up being one of the most compelling races of the season. 

Last year’s race generated $77 million in tax revenue, outperforming even Super Bowl LVIII, which took place a couple of months later at Allegiant Stadium in Paradise. 

New fan experiences

This year’s Las Vegas Grand Prix odds introduces several upgrades to enhance the fan experience. For the first time, a free daytime fan zone will be available for those who want to soak in the atmosphere without a ticket. Additionally, 10,000 general admission tickets have been added across three new fan zones, offering unassigned grandstand seating.

These changes have come into play this year to address spectators who wanted to experience the event at a lower price, according to Renee Wilm, who works for Liberty Media and is also the CEO of the LVGP. Single-day general admission tickets start at $99, a more affordable alternative to the $600 weekend tickets.

Fans can also enjoy the debut of the “Ferrari Challenge” support event, which offers Ferrari drivers an opportunity to race on the iconic track. Speaking of races, sessions won’t be kicking off as late as midnight this year, thanks to adjustments to the practice schedule. However, the main race will still begin at 10 p.m., the typical time for big events like this one in Las Vegas. 

For refreshments, attendees can head to the new Heineken Bar or the Evian Club Hydration station. Or, for some extra fun, there’s the option to visit ESPN’s new “Putt Stop” at the paddock for a round of mini golf.

A focus on the community

Last year’s event drew criticism from local businesses, who said construction of the track disrupted customer access. As Wilm admitted, promoters had not adequately communicated with locals about the disruptions. However, there have been little to no complaints this year. 

“The tone has changed dramatically,” Wilm told The Associated Press. She said that Lori Nelson-Kraft, the new communications director is “a force of nature" who has built relationships across the city.

The LVGP is also providing the community with a $1 million donation to local nonprofits and $1 million in event tickets, which will go to Make-A-Wish patients, local education staff, and other “key community contributors.”