Formula 1 unveiled its most packed race calendar in history on Wednesday.
The global racing series’ 2023 schedule includes a record 24 races, including its return to Las Vegas. That race will join two other U.S. contests, the Miami Grand Prix in May and Austin’s U.S. Grand Prix in October.
- China rejoined the calendar after a three-year break. The April race has yet to be confirmed due to the country’s strict COVID-related restrictions.
- Qatar, which had its inaugural race in 2021, will host its second race after a break this year to host November’s FIFA World Cup.
- The French Grand Prix dropped off the calendar. Race officials have expressed optimism that it could return on a rotating basis. Monaco, which was at risk, will stay on the calendar for another three years.
A race in Kyalami, South Africa, for which Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton has lobbied, won’t happen until 2024 at the earliest.
What Happens in Vegas
The Las Vegas Grand Prix on Nov. 18, 2023, will take place at night and be F1’s first Saturday race since 1985.
In June, F1 parent Liberty Media purchased a 39-acre plot for $240 million to house the paddock area. Las Vegas is under contract for three years, but race officials have expressed interest in a longer term.
