F1 News: Miami GP Chief Praises Las Vegas GP For "Herculean Achievement" To Benefit All US Races
The inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix has been hailed as a resounding success, setting a new standard for American Formula 1 races, by Miami Grand Prix chief Tyler Epp. Despite initial setbacks, the event not only had great on-track action but also delivered significant economic benefits.
Key Takeaways:
- Eventful Inauguration: Despite the hiccup of a broken drain cover delaying practice and affecting fans, the Las Vegas Grand Prix emerged as one of 2023's most exhilarating F1 races, dispelling any initial skepticism.
- Economic Windfall: The race generated substantial economic impact, with Nevada’s Gaming Control Board reporting a 22.6% increase in Strip casinos' gaming revenue, amounting to almost $821 million. Furthermore, MGM Resorts International experienced its most lucrative hotel revenue weekend ever, with room prices soaring by 33.7% compared to the previous year.
- Community and Promoter Support: Miami GP chief Tyler Epp praised the efforts of Las Vegas GP CEO Renee Wilm and her team, emphasising the collaborative spirit among American F1 promoters and the race's positive influence on the U.S. F1 landscape.
The Las Vegas Grand Prix weekend, held on the famous Strip, was initially marred by an incident involving a broken drain cover that led to the delay of practice sessions. However, this did not deter the race from becoming a highlight of the 2023 F1 season, as it was later celebrated for its excitement and drama.
Miami GP chief Tyler Epp, in an interview with Autosport, expressed his delight at the success of the Vegas race, highlighting its significance for both the individual promoters and the broader F1 community in the United States. He explained:
"I think it does [help all of the US races]. We talk about this a lot; to group all American F1 fans into one bucket is always dangerous, but we all like competition, and we all like drama.
"Gosh, the race in Vegas had both! Our race last May had a good bit of it as well. So, I think anytime we can get great racing on our soil only helps to cultivate that US F1 fan."
Epp continued:
"I can’t say enough about the effort of Renee [Wilm, Las Vegas GP CEO] and her team.
"That was a herculean achievement. I think the promoter community is defensive for each other, we know what it’s like when mistakes get made and stories get told, so the job they did was outstanding.
"For us, as an America promoter, we believe in the rising tide of all ships, and we wanted that to be successful.
"We were there, supporting in any way that we could, but I think Renee and the team did everything they could to invest in the sport was absolutely on display by the time Saturday night rolled around."
