Max Verstappen downplays hype around Las Vegas Grand Prix as Lewis Hamilton prepares to defeat Sergio Perez

The Formula One Grand Prix events are some of the most highly anticipated and thrilling races in the world of motorsport. Throughout the year, each event holds specific value for every driver, determining their position at the Driver Constructors’ Championship Standings.

As the countdown to the start of a Grand Prix begins, the level of hype among the audience gets electrifying. However, in a recent interview, the Dutch sensation Max Verstappen brushed off the excitement surrounding the highly anticipated Las Vegas Grand Prix.

Max Verstappen downplays hype around Las Vegas GP 2023

While Verstappen acknowledges the importance of fan support and recognizes that events like the Las Vegas GP contribute to the funding of Formula One, he also raises questions about his long-term commitment to the sport due to such events.

When asked about his thoughts regarding the upcoming GP, he said “I think we are there more for the show than the racing itself if you look at the layout of the track.” 

“But I’m not that into it. I’m more like, I’ll go there and do my thing and be gone again.”

The Red Bull driver was also questioned about whether the Las Vegas GP contributes to expanding the fanbase in the United States, especially because of the ongoing popular documentary series “Drive to Survive”.

Verstappen clarified that while the race might attract potential partners, providing a wide range of opportunities for business sectors, he remains focused on his role as a motorsports driver, solely on the track.

Lewis Hamilton needs to beat Sergio Perez at Las Vegas GP

Sergio Perez is being surrounded by a crisis, with both his team position and second place in the standings at risk. He came very close to taking the podium position at the Brazilian Grand Prix from third-place Fernando Alonso of Aston Martin, but the Spaniard saw the checkered flag 0.053 seconds before the Mexican.

 Lewis Hamilton is 32 points behind, and with only two races left this year, he poses a significant challenge to Checo. If Hamilton manages to secure victory at the Las Vegas GP,  he will receive 25 points. The second-place finisher has 18 points, with 15, 12, 10, 8, 6, 4, 2 and 1 points for positions 3 through 10, respectively.

That means that given that the British driver wins the GP, he will have 50 points and if Perez does not finish in second place, Lewis can still secure second place in the F1 standings, but he must beat Sergio Perez at the Las Vegas GP. It’s a must-win situation for Hamilton.

Do you think Perez will be able to secure his position in the standings? Let us know in the comment section below.