F1: Is Las Vegas destined to become F1's iconic event?

The governor of Nevada, Steve Sisolak, believes that the Las Vegas Grand Prix will become the “most iconic” Formula 1 race in about three years.

Speaking at the announcement of the race, Sisolak highlighted the positive economic impact that the race will have for Las Vegas and the state of Nevada.

“I am laser focused on our economy as governor,” Sisolak said. “We know the economic impact that Formula 1 will have on this community will be enormous.

“We are anticipating 170,000 visitors to town to watch this race.

“The direct economic impact is approaching half a billion dollars, and the indirect impact will be over a billion dollars by the time we’re done. We could not be more proud of this.”

The governor of Nevada, Steve Sisolak at the Las Vegas GP announcment

Sisolak added that he anticipates the race will become F1’s flagship event, surpassing the likes of historic races in locations such as Monaco and Great Britain. Given the setting, he may very well be right. Monaco has the history, but that track is better suited for go-karts.

Silverstone is big, but COTA, Miami and soon Las Vegas, will all be bigger.

“It’s also a point of pride that of the 23 F1 races next year, Las Vegas will be only one of five street circuit races, which is really exciting for us,” he said.

“We’ve hosted drafts, we’ve hosted the Super Bowl but the opportunity to host an F1 race is [really] something.

“And I predict that this will be the most iconic race, the flagship race of F1 within a couple of years. That’s how well this is going to be received.”