F1 News: Las Vegas GP Under Threat From Ongoing Strikes

The upcoming Las Vegas Grand Prix faces potential upheaval due to looming labour strikes, with the Culinary Union leading the charge.

This year's much-anticipated Las Vegas Grand Prix could face unexpected challenges due to nationwide labour strikes. As the US grapples with a wave of strikes, the Las Vegas Grand Prix is in the crosshairs of a potential major industrial action.

Key Takeaways:

• The Las Vegas Culinary Union recently revealed that 95% of its workers voted in favour of strike action, affecting major casino resorts like MGM Resorts, Caesars Entertainment Corporation, and Wynn/Encore Resorts.
• Business analysts have warned that the implications of these labour strikes could potentially surpass the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic on certain industries.
• With the inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix scheduled for mid-November, race organisers are apprehensive that the celebrations planned around the race might face significant disruptions.

The Las Vegas Grand Prix is under threat as workers from various industries have taken to the streets in protest. Most recently, automobile workers have also initiated their walkouts.

This week, the Las Vegas Culinary Union delivered a jolt to the industry. The union announced a staggering 95% vote in favour of strike action, albeit without confirming a specific date. Business insiders, such as The Street, are raising alarms, suggesting that the fallout could be 'bigger than Covid'.

A statement from the union highlighted the gravity of the situation: 

"[The] Culinary and Bartenders Unions negotiating committee is authorised to call for a strike at 22 casino resorts properties on the Las Vegas Strip between the largest employers MGM Resorts, Caesars Entertainment Corporation, and Wynn/Encore Resorts."

This potential labour unrest couldn't come at a worse time for the Las Vegas Grand Prix. Slated for mid-November, the race is expected to draw international fans and locals. The grand festivities around the race weekend might face significant impediments, highlighting the effectiveness of a well-timed strike action.

Ted Pappageorge, Secretary-Treasurer for the Culinary Union, addressed the situation assertively, stating: 

“Today, Culinary and Bartenders Union members have sent the strongest message possible to the casino industry to settle a fair contract as soon as possible.

"We have negotiations scheduled next week with MGM Resorts, Caesars Entertainment, and Wynn/Encore Resorts... If these gaming companies don’t come to an agreement, the workers have spoken and we will be ready to do whatever it takes - up to and including a strike."