The Las Vegas GP was a highlight for F1 fans all over the world to be able to see a new racetrack introduced to the sport. Millions across the globe enjoyed the circuit that took the racers through parts of the Las Vegas Strip, with Max Verstappen taking the win. While F1 lovers had a blast during the first Vegas Prix, local business owners were not so happy.

After the race was done and the crew left, several business owners took to the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority and F1 to share their experience. The race was a fun event for fans, but in the end, it came with some collateral damage to locals.

F1 steps up to take on the requests of local businesses

Just 2 days after the race was concluded, many reports of businesses suffering losses due to the race started showing up. After months of trying to get a resolution by talking to the LVCVA and F1 management, the parties have finally agreed to have a meeting and come to an agreement about how to tackle the situation.

Concerns were raised by business owners, particularly regarding losses incurred due to the F1 race, road construction, detours, and closures. Key individuals in the meeting included Randy Markin (owner of Battista’s Hole in the Wall Restaurant), Betsy Fretwell (COO of the Las Vegas GP), and Steve Hill (President and CEO of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority).

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Randy Markin spoke to KSNV and expressed satisfaction with the meeting. He said, as reported by MSN, “It was a very good meeting. I’m glad that F1 is stepping up,” and added, “Steve Hill stepped up and made sure that this meeting happened.” Both Markin and Mimmo Ferraro emphasized significant financial losses for their businesses. The losses were attributed to decreased foot traffic resulting from road-related disruptions associated with the F1 race.

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After meeting with the F1 management, Markin said, “We’re going to look at some numbers, and F1 will get back to us.” “So, hopefully, by the end of the week, we’ll see how we’re going to progress to get things settled for this year. And F1 said that they would like to work with us in the coming years,” he added. The fact that all the parties involved decided to help the local businesses with the damage caused had the locals cheered up about the losses that would be settled.

The removal of a temporary F1 bridge on Flamingo was underway during the meeting. Markin attributed part of the decline in his business up to $5 million to the construction and closures related to this bridge. Mimmo Ferraro reported a $2 million hit to his family-owned business despite being only an eighth of a mile from the F1 track.

What is the Formula 1 management and LVCVA doing for them?

LVCVA President Steve Hill acknowledged the disproportionate impact on some businesses due to the construction required for the F1 event. The inaugural race was said to be successful in terms of economic benefit and international exposure. However, efforts are being made to address concerns raised by businesses about the Formula 1 race.

Ongoing discussions between business owners and F1 are taking place with businesses near the Flamingo-Koval intersection to understand their concerns. LVCVA is set to work with affected businesses to find solutions to improve future F1 races for the event and the city.

The impact of the Las Vegas GP’s inaugural year exceeded expectations, and stakeholders will review the final economic numbers. County leaders, including Segerblom, emphasize the need to learn from mistakes. They stress the importance of taking public input and modifying plans. This approach aims to avoid repeating issues in the future.

The launch of the Las Vegas GP was a success for the organization. However, several issues needed attention. After a few hiccups during the first year, adjustments are necessary.
Both F1 and the LVCVA acknowledge the need to address these issues. They are committed to working together to ensure a great experience for everyone involved.

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With that said, what did you think about the first Las Vegas Grand Prix? Is this a track you will be looking forward to seeing the drivers race on in the future?