F1 News: Lewis Hamilton Apprehensive Of Las Vegas Grand Prix - "I Don't Understand How We're Going To Move Around!"

Lewis Hamilton is approaching the Las Vegas Grand Prix with a mix of anticipation and excitement as he yearns for a race win.

In a recent interview, Lewis Hamilton expressed both excitement and apprehensiveness for the upcoming Las Vegas Grand Prix, calling it a “wild experience.” This unique night race, set to become a 2023 calendar highlight, poses unfamiliar challenges for the drivers.

Key Takeaways:

• The Las Vegas Grand Prix stands out as a highly anticipated night race, with Lewis Hamilton highlighting its unusual and exciting aspects.
• F1's break from tradition in Las Vegas includes a significant $500m investment in a permanent pit building and track, set to attract A-list celebrities and an opening ceremony.
• Hamilton, committed to Mercedes with a new contract, is hopeful for a stronger performance in the 2024 season, following a challenging year.

Lewis Hamilton has shared his thoughts on the distinctive and challenging nature of the upcoming F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix. Describing the event as “wild,” Hamilton revealed his intrigue and anticipation for this weekend's race, which promises to be a standout event on the F1 2023 calendar.

Set to take place at night, the Las Vegas Grand Prix introduces unique conditions for drivers, with a possibility of record-low temperatures. Hamilton, in conversation with Sky, expressed his wonder at the logistics of the event, considering the dense crowds and compact space of Las Vegas. His approach to the race is one of openness and adaptability, ready to embrace the novel experience of racing under the city's famous night lights.

“I just don’t understand how we’re going to move around that place," he admitted. “I don’t understand how I’m going to get from the track to the hotel!

“It’s going to be such a compact spot. So many people.

“But it’s going to be wild, a wild experience.

Breaking from their usual approach, F1 has invested heavily in the heart of Las Vegas, spending $500m to establish a permanent pit building and race track. This investment signifies the grandeur and significance of the event, expected to draw global attention and A-list celebrities, including an opening ceremony with top musicians and all 20 F1 drivers.

“The best thing is to go with an open mind. Not having any predetermined ideas of what it’s going to be like. And just take it all in, when you get there.

“Driving under night lights, I’m going to feel like I’m in the casino! Pretty cool.”

Hamilton noted the diverse appeal of American cities, emphasising the passionate and hardcore sporting fans in the United States. 

“People will be coming in from all over, for that grand prix," he assured the media outlet. “It’s great. Each city in America gives a different atmosphere.

“The one thing is that they’ve got amazing fans. Hardcore, sporting fans in the United States.

“It’s such a huge place. There is something for everyone - the mountains, the countryside, the city, New York is the coolest city ever.

“Vegas, a big playground for adults! It’s going to be mad.

“I’ll be interested to see how you can stay focused.”

As Mercedes gears up for the final races of the season, Hamilton remains hopeful for a win in either the penultimate race, Las Vegas, or Abu Dhabi which will bring this season to a close. Despite a challenging 2023 season, his renewed contract with Mercedes and expectations for the 2024 W15 car reflect his commitment to bringing home a race win once again.