LAS VEGAS—As the Formula One drivers rose slowly onto hydraulic platforms in a storm of lasers, drones and light rain on Wednesday night, a few of them had to admit that they were no longer sure what they were doing here.
Officially, they had traveled to Las Vegas for the 21st of 22 Grands Prix on this season’s calendar, ready to race around a new, purpose-built circuit along the Strip and into the desert.
But in the middle of a thumping opening ceremony, any actual racing felt like an afterthought.
The 20 jumpsuited drivers were there to smile, wave, and help F1 mark its latest, over-the-top push for expansion into the American market.
Organizations:
VEGAS
Locations:
Las Vegas