The Las Vegas Grand Prix was supposed to be a record-breaking event, as many predicted that celebrities throughout the world would glorify the event with their presence. Contrary to expectations, the actual situation unfolded in a completely different manner.
Despite the attendance of some notable figures, a significant number of expected celebrities were absent from the event. Speculation has risen, suggesting that Max Verstappen’s persistent negative remarks about the show may have played a role in preventing certain individuals from attending.
Max Verstappen’s comment caused the Las Vegas GP’s low attendance
The FIA made a significant effort to establish a dominant presence for the sport in the United States, with the event on the iconic Vegas Strip expected to evolve into a grand spectacle surpassing even the scale of the Super Bowl. From the very beginning of the season, this event was marked as the pinnacle of motorsport in the Formula One calendar.
From @iwcwatches_us: James Marsden and other celebrities attend an event organized by IWC Schaffhausen and Mercedes-AMG at "Speed City”, Las Vegas.#James Marsden #IWC#GP las vegas pic.twitter.com/uP33t9Rjj6
— James Marsden Fan Page (@ElaineReginada7) November 19, 2023
Despite the considerable anticipation, the reality proved to be a disappointing spectacle for entertainment. While the opening ceremony featured renowned artists like Bishop Briggs, J Balvin, Tïesto, and others, the attendance of the celebrities was rather underwhelming. Events such as the Monaco or Miami Grand Prix had significantly more celebrity than Las Vegas, which proved to be a huge loss for the organizers.
Many have suggested that such consequences occurred due to Verstappen labeling the event a “clown show” in many instances, eventually making the celebrities reluctant to attend the show.
Helmut Marko opens up on Max Verstappen’s Las Vegas GP critique
Max Verstappen has been vocal about criticizing the Las Vegas GP even before the event started. The three-time World Champion not only expressed his displeasure regarding the event openly but also stated that it was more focused on entertainment than the actual sport itself.
This was an amazing explanation by Max Verstappen!
— Geralt (@Geralt31065966) November 18, 2023
Las Vegas GP felt more of a show rather than racing. The spirit of racing and the emotions was missing.
These days F1 is filled with celebrities who doesn't even care about F1 but are there for media.#F1 #LasVegasGP https://t.co/84WWvyosfZ
Several individuals, including Helmut Markio, indicated that the Dutch driver could have been less direct than he was since most of Red Bull’s sponsorships are American.
He said, “Max is a very direct person; he could have said things a little more diplomatically… 80% of our sponsors are Americans, and they are here.”
“I think the reactions we had at the beginning of the weekend would have been different if we had been at the beginning of the season.”
Do you think it was wise of Verstappen to risk his sponsorship to express criticism of the event? Tell us in the comment section below.
