I'm a Vegas local and have to drive down Koval and Sands (the track part) to get to work. I was also a guest services ambassador at the Sphere zone for the '23 and '24 races. Here's my take on things: Getting to work with all the F1 stuff around town is inconvenient, it gets really bad during the couple weeks around the event when they put up barricades and close roads. It negatively impacts the businesses around the track area, in particular Jay's Market on the corner of Flamingo and Koval. The paddock building on Harmon was closed all year, I heard it was going to have something there in the off season, but so far no. The Sphere zone removed 3 grandstands this year, but added a bunch of GA standing room bleachers. They played the driver announcements and parade on the screens at the Sphere and the area was busy. The Ludacris concert was packed and the Sphere zone in general seemed to be mostly full on race day. Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves, there were far fewer complaints this year compared to last year. It was fun working at the race and seeing what goes into building a street track. I'm an F1 fan and think it's cool to have a race in my city. Those who aren't fans tend to be more negative. Vegas has ignorant road construction (or cones blocking lanes for no reason), so things are messed up a lot anyway. Everyone smokes weed everywhere in Vegas, even though they aren't supposed to. The Linq Promenade is constantly clam baked.
I love how he said during his meet and greet nobody was upset at the race was happening like of course nobody who attends a Formula One photographers meet and greet is going to be upset if their fans of the sport enough to have a meet and greet with a photographer they're not going to say anything negative about the race
I went past the Paddock building a few months back and it looked abandoned, the way the concrete bollards are stored around it adds to the look like it was some project that failed in its final days of building. The only signs of life were the fans running. They have to do something with that for the rest of the year, I don't know what, but it reminded me of those images you see of those Olympic buildings that go abandoned after the Olympics are over.
As a local Vegas Uber driver, this might be the most honest and fair review of the Las Vegas strip during F1. Thank you for being fair and balanced my friend
I don't understand why they wouldn't use the paddock for anything else the rest of the year. Simulators, go-karts, a wind tunnel, there are so many ways they could use that space and help grow the sport and maybe sell some more tickets and get people to come back the rest of the year.
Race was on a Sunday here in Australia at 5PM AEDT. I'm not complaining, one of the few races that I can watch without either staying up late or waking up early.
Nova Scotia, Canada here. Right side four hours of the race. I watched it last year awake, just for the novelty. I'm happy for George the wooden boy. My wife is switching to Ferrari next year, and i'm hoping Checo has a job
@@esciteach7997 welcome to our world, that's basically almost the same time as ours when F1 is in the middle east. The European races are little more friendlier with races on Sundays at 11PM AEDT.
I go to MotoGP most years. Last year general admission for all 3 days at COTA was $65 (or $50 with military discount). With the exception of the crossover bridge, there was ZERO sections of the track blocked off from view. You could watch the race either in the grandstands or the grassy knoll, or from the fence, or even the lookout tower for a few more (I think $35?) bucks... F1 charging over $1000 for general admission and not letting you view the race from anywhere other than your assigned seats is just a big FU to the fans. The sport is already a complete yawn-fest compared to MotoGP, this just makes it even less appearing for me to attend.
We went to Vegas last weekend… had a great time! No weed smell but plenty of cigarette smoke. Love the idea of a water/soda line- silly to have it together with payed drinks. Thanks for these videos! Cheers from Texas!
One day you could make a review on F1 logistics. How many people of every team travel from country to country. How do they manage to send the equipment and the cars. How much it costs to move the great circus around the world! Thank you Kym
I thought it was a great event! We sat in the Sphere zone and it was a great viewing point to see the cars!!Tickets were expensive but I’d say it was worth it, plus the unlimited free food was a big savings. The grandstands didn’t fill up until right before the race started, but they seemed mostly full. It was just a cool vibe being in the city and feeling surrounded by F1… like we were just wandering through a hotel Friday and randomly ran into Alex Albon lol
The crowd you asked were definitely not locals, they were there to see the race. Anger is from those that need to go to work on a daily basis. The weed smell.... welcome to Las Vegas, that said no way there is any contact high by the drivers, that is only possible indoors in a closed room but yeah, just another reason to take the race off the strip. Weed was here first and it aint going away since its legalized and can be delivered to your room. While I wish it would go to the LV Speedway where they can build a massive track and have it during normal hours I will also say it was a great race, best of the year. And as always great video Kym!
Most of the anger wasn't even coming from people who actually worked on the strip. Being the second year, the casinos did better with how to get their employees in and out more efficiently. Were there still inconveniences? Yes but nothing like there was last year. Most of the people who were vocally angry were just angry for those people and didnt have anything to do with the working on the strip. The strip also isn't a road locals use to commute to and from their jobs, and most avoid it altogether anyways. The anger is definitely blown out of proportion from people who aren't even affected by it.
Kym, your coverage in F1 events - in-flight experiences- airline lounges, are very interesting & superb content. Netflix should do a documentary about your role and coverage of events. One of my favors with the Flipflop traveler. Pls Stay Healthy - VIVA LA PASIÓN- oh waiting on your hat …it’s on back order..
As someone who attended both Vegas GPs and someone who gets up regularly and watches races at 6AM pacific time all season long, completely agree would love to see the start time earlier! That was my biggest complaint!
East coast American. I have and will only attend the COTA race. I hate the glitz of Miami and Vegas but I will admit seeing Stevie Wonder after the 2017 COTA race was one of the best concerts I’ve attended.
Generally speaking, Vegas needs way more transportation options (and not stupid tesla tunnels). As someone who has visited multiple times, and has family who lived there, the taxi situation from the airport is ridiculous and the monorail is functionally useless. The monorail doesnt connect to the airport, is hidden at the back of the casinos, and almost every person arriving from the airport is going to a linear corridor that's a few miles long. An elevated metro system along the strip would alleviate the traffic concerns considerably and reduce the impacts on residents.
The Boring Company is coming to solve this. And they are certainly NOT stupid tunnels. This will be an underground Uber like service that is point to point and not bothered with above ground traffic or weather and in comfort and security as you ride alone. Over 2 million people have already used the small part that has been completed by the Convention Center. and gets glowing reviews from riders. Virgin and Encore will be next very shortly.
@ my dude, they are literally less efficient trains. 2 million riders in 3+ years is not a lot. Vegas residents and visitors deserve a proper public transportation service.
@@MrPatpaty You do understand the loop currently only runs about 50 days a year for about 8 hours a day, right? LA has costed taxpayers $1B per mile of subway. The loop? ZERO. Win.
@@mikelfrance-l6x I won’t defend LA construction costs, but their system does move 61m ppl per year. 50 days/year isn’t a public transit system. Also Clark county paid $50m for
@@rcbrproductions8296 Notice his great photos as he complained about the Rolls ride-my complaint is the commentators interrupting the conversation going on inside the cars. I don’t need to hear them; I want to hear the drivers.
Extra security could have been due to an unpublicized security threat or added protection due to global issues. Happy you and your son won and donated that cash. Thank you for all of the wonderful videos 🏎🏁
You have to think what the PR would have been if something bad happened. So, overkill is better than a kill. Its the world today, unfortunately. As stated T mobile was really easy to get through security.
@ Excatly. Especially with previous issues with drivers being assaulted for their watches. Better to have extra security for the drivers, teams and fans. Wouldn’t want it any other way 🏎🏁
Being kicked out of stands in 2023….NO one will remember what happened on the track but those that were kicked out and got the $200 merch credit? They’ll talk about it for years. Badge of honor.
I didn't even get the voucher because I had tickets to Friday too. They were different tickets on the pit straight. I didn't have tickets to Saturday though and only flew in for 2 days. So yea I didn't get jack
Toronto here - Kym you met me in Montreal and signed my book! Despite the 1AM start we were able to get about 20-25 people out to watch the race at a local bar. I do agree that it should be pushed back another hour cause 1:00am is asking a lot of people on the east coast! See you in Montreal next year.
Honestly I loved exploring Vegas and seeing a different side of the city! I heard a lot from the locals about having a hard time coming and going from work but it did bring a lot more people out this year then last!
Wrong. Vegas local here. F1 does not bring more people out. It was dead. An event like F1 isn't even a blip for this town except for all the headaches it causes locals for 3 months out of the year. This race is done after next year, they will take the exit clause.
@@mkuslerWrong. Actual Vegas local here. Vegas native, even. The race was jammed-packed with fans, it was such an experience. People were loving it left and right, saying that it was a rush and it's a wild ride. I'm certain that the Vegas GP is here to stay for many years.
The meet-and-greet was awesome! Glad you enjoyed the T-shirts-had to represent 😂😂. This was my first F1 event, and the experience didn’t disappoint. We started by booking a hotel on the Strip and waited until the day of to snag tickets. Managed to grab FP1 and FP2 at the Sphere for just $90 with fees-not bad at all. On race day, I explored different vantage points along the Strip to soak in the action. Out of curiosity, I checked prices for paddock tickets-$4K for a package of four, with all food and beverages included. Honestly, that’s a solid deal if you’ve got a group and want to be in the heart of it all.
Eastern time zone here, hell yeah I stayed up and watched the race live even though I have a subscription to F1TV and could have watched any time. Had to see Max secure that 4th title live.
Some things locals need to consider for F1… It took 5 months less this year to setup and tear down will be done a lot quicker. The legit road closures didn’t start until race weekend. They block the bridges to prevent 5,000 clogging up the path. The random coverings of let’s say dennys? Does seem a little too much I agree. They did a community day before the race for local kids and UNLV students to get a tour of the garage and meet drivers. They also gave away 600 tickets to locals only. They also had some events just before the race free for locals. The prices weren’t super crazy as last year. For example, grandstand tickets for race night were $400. Standing room were less than $300. You can attend all practices and qualifying for less than $600 total including the race. It’s still expensive yes but considering everything in Vegas is such as UFC events and Raider tickets…it’s no different. Last I checked it’s still around $250 for nose bleed raider tickets after tax. For the people affected by closures trying to get to work, yall should be mad at your employer such as the casino’s. They made millions from F1. I fully think you should be compensated for having to leave early, whether that’s extra pay, PTO, bonus’s etc. Ultimately it was another huge success as Saturday night was sold out in all the GA zones minus standing room. I checked Saturday morning and every seat was sold out online (there is no reason for F1 to lie on their website). I was there Saturday night and have video of every seat occupied by 10pm. Sure the free practice and qualifying was fairly empty as it typically is at most races. Itll definitely be coming back for years to come as long as Vegas/casinos keep making money. It’s also one of the most exciting races of the F1 season when it comes to street circuits. Last year, it had more overtakes than any other F1 circuit and most all time for a brand new track for F1. I do think they should do the race in October when temps are warmer as that’s the biggest complaint drivers have for tire performance.
Exactly. Even Bellagio was half the time of last year. The Strip is torn up most of the year anyway. No one complained about the Horseshoe taking 2 lanes away for nearly 2 years but they complain about F1 taking one lane away. Go figure.
Hi kym, i dont know if you can bring this up to the higher people. But they can treat the general admission viewers better. It’s a $350 dollar GA ticket, 400 after taxes and fees. Flamingo zone in particular. They provided two bleacher style platforms that caters first come first serve. If you came to the zone at 6pm you will end up watching from the screen, a very expensive watch party. There is enough space between the two platforms to accommodate another structure to make all GA ticket holders happy. Even if you made it to the platform, once you go out the perimeter to buy merch or food and drinks, you lose your seat and is practically impossible to get back inside since there are hundreds waiting to be seated. I have tried gen admission before (walk about in singapore) and this is by far the most expensive and worst experience i had. They don’t even need to make a bleacher platform, just elevate the ground so viewers can get an angle over the barriers. Imagine a drs straight and what you get to see is a screen angled diagonally and the rear wing of a 200 mph f1 car.
Don’t worry, the race only has one more season before they pull the plug Look at what the actual numbers of race attendees were F1 says 306K attended Las Vegas race; police report lower number) - Las Vegas Metro police tell 8 News Now that 139,000 people attended this year's Las Vegas Grand Prix over its three nights
I can promise you the vast majority of the people who showed up to your meet and greet are not from the Las Vegas area that's a very terrible polling population
I live in the East Coast, I was so tired from work all day long and I stayed up as much I could but fell asleep around lap 15, woke up at lap 33 and finished the race. I enjoyed the race but not the viewing experience haha, I'm just happy to see Max get his 4th title!
I was in the West Harmon Grandstand and it was absolutely packed for the driver's parade. And as I commented on a previous video, definitely didn't run out of the drinks. Definitely an expensive weekend, but even at West Harmon Grandstand (which was one that it felt like they treated as an afterthought), it was a wonderful time.
12am start time for me. not ideal, but definitely better than last year. then again, ill wake up at 3am for china gp. a couple inconvenient start times a season is manageable for me.
As a night owl, I love the far-east races and watch most of the European ones on DVR. (I’m on PST). But it would make sense to move the race back to like 8pm.
I went on Thursday with my brother the sphere area. I was surprised by the free food. I got free drinks as well. We saw New Republic Live it was an incredible time. The F1 building should be open as a store and fan experience all year we would go as locals.
I wish all races were run at the right time for locals/ the country they’re in. My favourite part of being an f1 fan is getting up at ungodly hours. It’s my way of being committed, and it feels like the only people up at that time are like minded fans. Then, you turn on the tv at 4am and its lights, colour excitement and bright eyed and bushy tailed commentators. It’s kind of magic.
Agreed! As a lifelong F1 fan here in the US, waking at odd hours here to watch a live F1 race from across the planet is part of the ritual. Makes it feel like a truly global sport, reminds you that racing really is a big deal in other countries and that F1 is a contest for a World Championship. It helps the viewer get out of a provincial mindset and appreciate that others do it a bit differently, and bring their local passion to the game. And that's a part of why I enjoy Kym's content and perspective so much. It's a small price to pay to follow such a shared culture!
Thank you , Kym.....for an objective review of the Las Vegas G.P.......The views and venue closely resembles Singapore. I do think the ticket prices for this event should be more affordable to the "average" fan.....Merry Christmas !
I've been to Sinapore and there are similarities. Its very hot in Singapore and very cold in Vegas. But you can walk easily from the hotels to the event. Singapore had more support races which I think Vegas should have. Vegas entertainment however is the best of any in F1. So, for the entire time you send at the event you have a lot of fun other than watching a race. Also I felt Vegas had better and more TV screens and higher stands to see more of the track better. But Singapore is a good event to go to as well.
Kym agree, Las Vegas new that the F1 was coming and should have taken into account the F1 drivers want consistency between the F1 events. Traffic is always bad so get over it Vegas! Thanks Kym another great and quality update. Take care!
I was at the “cesar Zone” it was extremely cool to be 30’ from the track but extremely hard to see much being that low. Will definitely try the sphere or pit straight next year.
Vegas local here. I went Saturday night and sat in the T-MOBILE grandstand at the Sphere. Only downside was we didn't have a good view of a screen. A new building is going up on the southeast corner of turn 14. Maybe there will be some sort of hospitality zone there in 2 years. F1 needs to put something more meaningful on Thursday night if they want people to attend. With all of the other options for entertainment only the most diehard race fans are buying tickets to watch practice.
Kym, you look spent.😊 But look how much fun you had. The only things you are missing is a professional pro bono camera bag carrier. This would help to keep you refreshed. If needed, I absolutely know someone. Keep it up and I am a subscriber.
The race had some crazy moments, and I think max drove a very smart and wise one…great video again! Hope you guys have avoided the big fire up in Wedge Island etc..safe travels
I still think FOM needs to get their ticket pricing right; there is a lot of budget sensitivity in the public atm, and it's extremely difficult to rationalize the premium that F1 is charging for attendance at this event. Doesn't matter how many celebrities they parade about or burgers are included in the ticket price.
I love attending this race because of the walkability. I stay at the Cosmopolitan and had easy access to the West Harmon zone for my cheap LH44 tickets. Because that zone has no entertainment, it is much better on the food lines and porta potty counts. I was at the Sphere last year and I think $500 GA Sphere tickets or $700 West Harmon grandstand tickets are the way to go for a fan on a tighter budget.
I’ve been going to COTA for years and I would LOVE to see F2 or F3 along with the F1 race at the track. I watch all the races and I think people need to give F2 and F3 a chance because there is some great racing going on.
Good day Kym, I reside here in southern Nevada and I am a huge F1 fan. With F1 races in multiple time zones world wide I DVR nearly all of them. I'm certain folks in Europe as well as on the east coast of The U.S. have that capability, hence the starting time is my greatest complaint here. Run the race at 7:pm as you said! I was very disappointed in the amount of dust on the track/street. This city has many motorized Street Sweepers, that problem could have been solved easily. My only other complaint was the singing of America's National Antum! Personally it was the worst rendition I have ever heard in my life. Kym as you pointed out the racing was not as good as the 2023 race, however it was above average in passing and I enjoyed it totally. Thanks for your video's, safe travels and stay safe out there.
Kym: again; we here in NYC (loyal fan where Japan 3pm= 3am in NYC yet we stay up for race) found the 1am start ridiculous. From watching all F1 races since race #1 and knowing "Lights Out" are usually locally 2 or 3pm, we can live with the Europe starts around 9 am. Perfect. Finally, 2:30 am waiting for a drive around on the track before interviews and podium ????? Horrible.
Hey Kym there is fan seating at turn 14/15 but it’s rented out by the Golden Nugget at Bubba Gump. My Wife, Brother and I were there for the race. You’re right though it’s a great spot for the race.
I'm not getting up early for F1, not for this race or for other races. We always watch the races in the evening as a family. During the day we like to do other things, but it works out well as long as you stay off social media and don't listen to the news. I liked the Las Vegas race, I just wish they would skip the whole driving to somewhere for the interviews, drive back again and all that. It just takes way too long when you're watching.
Thanks mate I always learn something watching your content. Out of curiosity, how do you sell your professional photography? To individuals to businesses and how do you show them what you have for sale? Would be an interesting video
Regarding the food/bar concessions, one issue no one is mentioning is how Red Bull stopped the sale of their drinks before the race so that the Red Bulls they had on display in the refrigerators could be used for *advertisement*
Lets be honest here. There's not much to see in F1 and Ferrari Challenge practices. Better to stay inside and play the tables. Also the first night was the coldest.
I sat at the Sphere Thursday and it was very empty. The food was disappointing, even compared to last year. One Republic concert was fun between sessions. The Pit building is opening to the public in spring of 2025 supposedly. I watched the race from the Strip, but if you want to watch the corner where all the passing happens, you have to deal with cops yelling at you to move along up and down the stairs.
I use to come to Vegas in early December for 2 reasons. 1. Lower room prices and do some Xmas shopping. But now with The Strip being unwalkable or easy to get around - forget it. Vegas use to be Fun and Easy to get around to all the Casino's on the Strip - No More. The Only People to Benefit from F1 are Billionaire Strip Owners and Rich People Fans.
A 19.00 start will be terrible for the people in Europe. The current start time meant I had to be in front of the TV at 07.00 which is doable but getting up at 04.00 won't be happening.
Anyone else was annoyed by the Buffer intros? I already find them painful for 2 boxers, for 20 drivers it was ear torture… Loved the race though, and great report from Kim as usual 👍
Are those numbers tickets sold, or actual tickets claimed thru the turnstiles? FP1/FP2/FP3 did look very sparse as you mentioned vs last year (not that FP1/FP2 day is usually highest attendance days). Not saying it looks like a bad event, but it looks expensive to run and if they had to do that massive drop on ticket prices in the late days that's not a good sign for long term.
if its at 7pm it would be perfect even 8 pm, I know is hard on euro viewers but remember us here in the USA sometimes we got to see races at 4 or 5 am when they are on asia .
I don't mind the tickets being a year in advance. Would have been good if the Australian GP did this instead of being close to the event and driving a huge demand (and then using in-demand pricing) thereby increasing prices even more
Australians have to wake up at some ungodly time of the morning (somewhere between 2am and 5am usually) to watch many of the EU races so the EU can suck it up to wake up early for the LV GP. The worst part about having the races early hours on Monday morning for Australia/New Zealand is that many wouldn't be able to watch the race until later that day after work by which time some news article or YT channel has often spoiled the result by putting it directly in the title! If it's not in the title then of course it's easy to avoid. I didn't like the 2023 LV GP, but I liked this years one because they toned down the spectacle of it and the race was really very great even though we didn't get so much as a yellow flag.
Las Vegas PD agree with you. LVMPD’s Office of Public Information reported 57,000 people attended the race Saturday night - the most-attended night. A spokesperson added that 32,000 people attended Thursday and 50,000 attended Friday. The total number would put attendance over the three race days at 139,000.
Atlantic Canada here. This is the only race i won't watch live on TSN+ this season. I watched it last year for the maiden voyage. Vegas is Vegas. There won't ever be a reduction in price. Gotta keep the poors poor
It was insane that you got free drinks at the bars, it took so long to get water. And no separate water filling stations to refill your water bottles! Terrible foresight in that regard
I have not seen anything going on in the paddock building or media buildings, but they say they're going to have go-karts and racing simulators there, as well as some old cars and merch. Still waiting to see if there's anything else they can do but they've kinda locked themselves in with making the whole building about racing.
Vegas is loaded with tourists all the time. F1 didn't increase tourism, by any means -- just changed the tourists' names. So, no positive economic impact. And likely some negative. The race screwed up tourism for six weeks before and a couple weeks after. My wife and daughter went to Vegas about 4 weeks before the race. Race preparations made it impossible or very difficult to visit several of the restaurants and attractions they had meant to see. They were disappointed. Put a damper on their vacation. They certainly won't go back within 8 weeks of another F1 race.
I can honestly say I got up at 1:00 am an ungodly hour only fit for star gazing but I watched til about lap 30 and decided George was trye whispering again and had it in the bag.
Sprint race would add more track action and more support races would be better bit earlier timing... Novelty will wear of in local country to make Europe TV time...
Thanks for the as always excellent video Kim. You always say "LOS" Vegas. Making me think, is it actually meant to be said like that? Agree that it's one of the best races for on track action, very much enjoyed the race on TV
I'm a Vegas local and have to drive down Koval and Sands (the track part) to get to work. I was also a guest services ambassador at the Sphere zone for the '23 and '24 races. Here's my take on things: Getting to work with all the F1 stuff around town is inconvenient, it gets really bad during the couple weeks around the event when they put up barricades and close roads. It negatively impacts the businesses around the track area, in particular Jay's Market on the corner of Flamingo and Koval. The paddock building on Harmon was closed all year, I heard it was going to have something there in the off season, but so far no. The Sphere zone removed 3 grandstands this year, but added a bunch of GA standing room bleachers. They played the driver announcements and parade on the screens at the Sphere and the area was busy. The Ludacris concert was packed and the Sphere zone in general seemed to be mostly full on race day. Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves, there were far fewer complaints this year compared to last year. It was fun working at the race and seeing what goes into building a street track. I'm an F1 fan and think it's cool to have a race in my city. Those who aren't fans tend to be more negative. Vegas has ignorant road construction (or cones blocking lanes for no reason), so things are messed up a lot anyway. Everyone smokes weed everywhere in Vegas, even though they aren't supposed to. The Linq Promenade is constantly clam baked.
I love how he said during his meet and greet nobody was upset at the race was happening like of course nobody who attends a Formula One photographers meet and greet is going to be upset if their fans of the sport enough to have a meet and greet with a photographer they're not going to say anything negative about the race
I went past the Paddock building a few months back and it looked abandoned, the way the concrete bollards are stored around it adds to the look like it was some project that failed in its final days of building. The only signs of life were the fans running.
They have to do something with that for the rest of the year, I don't know what, but it reminded me of those images you see of those Olympic buildings that go abandoned after the Olympics are over.
As a local Vegas Uber driver, this might be the most honest and fair review of the Las Vegas strip during F1. Thank you for being fair and balanced my friend
thanks; love to hear from your perspective
I don't understand why they wouldn't use the paddock for anything else the rest of the year. Simulators, go-karts, a wind tunnel, there are so many ways they could use that space and help grow the sport and maybe sell some more tickets and get people to come back the rest of the year.
"you have to be a very devout F1 fan to stay up that late" welcome to New Zealand
Vegas is one of about three races we can actually watch live here in NZ
Australia says hi too
Chile says hi too!
Most races give "jet-lag" for days...
Canada says hi!
Race was on a Sunday here in Australia at 5PM AEDT. I'm not complaining, one of the few races that I can watch without either staying up late or waking up early.
2 am in New York. Ridiculous
Nova Scotia, Canada here. Right side four hours of the race.
I watched it last year awake, just for the novelty. I'm happy for George the wooden boy.
My wife is switching to Ferrari next year, and i'm hoping Checo has a job
@@esciteach7997 welcome to our world, that's basically almost the same time as ours when F1 is in the middle east. The European races are little more friendlier with races on Sundays at 11PM AEDT.
I go to MotoGP most years. Last year general admission for all 3 days at COTA was $65 (or $50 with military discount). With the exception of the crossover bridge, there was ZERO sections of the track blocked off from view. You could watch the race either in the grandstands or the grassy knoll, or from the fence, or even the lookout tower for a few more (I think $35?) bucks... F1 charging over $1000 for general admission and not letting you view the race from anywhere other than your assigned seats is just a big FU to the fans. The sport is already a complete yawn-fest compared to MotoGP, this just makes it even less appearing for me to attend.
Liberty media now own MOTO GP so lets see what happens with that pricing and attitude.
East Coast Viewer, DEFINITELY did not stay up for this. Just avoided spoilers and watched the race on F1TV in the am.
I do that for most races! Works all the time!
I stayed up you didn’t because your a fake fan
@@QuewayYT that's insane
Who gets up in the middle of the night for a race? I actually love to wake up Sunday morning, making a nice coffee and watch the recorded race.
@ Duh-I stayed up. So there’s that.
We went to Vegas last weekend… had a great time! No weed smell but plenty of cigarette smoke. Love the idea of a water/soda line- silly to have it together with payed drinks. Thanks for these videos! Cheers from Texas!
One day you could make a review on F1 logistics. How many people of every team travel from country to country. How do they manage to send the equipment and the cars. How much it costs to move the great circus around the world! Thank you Kym
Attendance number was definitely inflated this year - was at the event for both years race weekend and this week was a ghost town
I thought it was a great event! We sat in the Sphere zone and it was a great viewing point to see the cars!!Tickets were expensive but I’d say it was worth it, plus the unlimited free food was a big savings. The grandstands didn’t fill up until right before the race started, but they seemed mostly full.
It was just a cool vibe being in the city and feeling surrounded by F1… like we were just wandering through a hotel Friday and randomly ran into Alex Albon lol
@@matthewmantey6431 Loved hearing your experience!
Lucky running into Albon! We went to Sphere Zone last year and I loved the whole experience.
Kym saying “Deez nutz” was not on my bingo card today
I live in Alaska and have to get up at an ungodly hour pretty much every single race, except Vegas (9 pm) and Austin (11am)
here in NYC also for most of the races especially those in Japan where 3pm=3am here !!!!
Forgot about Alaska, I’m in mountain time zone and I struggle to get up for the races. 🤜 🤛
306k was the estimate. Not actual. Actuals are about 160k and losses for the county were massive.
agree; very empty Friday and Saturday
The crowd you asked were definitely not locals, they were there to see the race. Anger is from those that need to go to work on a daily basis. The weed smell.... welcome to Las Vegas, that said no way there is any contact high by the drivers, that is only possible indoors in a closed room but yeah, just another reason to take the race off the strip. Weed was here first and it aint going away since its legalized and can be delivered to your room. While I wish it would go to the LV Speedway where they can build a massive track and have it during normal hours I will also say it was a great race, best of the year. And as always great video Kym!
right? Let's ask people who are coming to the event if they are in favor of the event... Braindead logic lmao
It cannot be delivered to hotel rooms here, that is an outright lie, they refuse delivery
Most of the anger wasn't even coming from people who actually worked on the strip. Being the second year, the casinos did better with how to get their employees in and out more efficiently. Were there still inconveniences? Yes but nothing like there was last year. Most of the people who were vocally angry were just angry for those people and didnt have anything to do with the working on the strip. The strip also isn't a road locals use to commute to and from their jobs, and most avoid it altogether anyways. The anger is definitely blown out of proportion from people who aren't even affected by it.
Kym, your coverage in F1 events - in-flight experiences- airline lounges, are very interesting & superb content. Netflix should do a documentary about your role and coverage of events. One of my favors with the Flipflop traveler. Pls Stay Healthy - VIVA LA PASIÓN- oh waiting on your hat …it’s on back order..
I thought the Vegas GP was amazing. The lights, the vibe. I am a local and welcome it! Great video!🎉
As someone who attended both Vegas GPs and someone who gets up regularly and watches races at 6AM pacific time all season long, completely agree would love to see the start time earlier! That was my biggest complaint!
East coast American. I have and will only attend the COTA race. I hate the glitz of Miami and Vegas but I will admit seeing Stevie Wonder after the 2017 COTA race was one of the best concerts I’ve attended.
NYC here; Vegas race began 1 am; ridiculous
Generally speaking, Vegas needs way more transportation options (and not stupid tesla tunnels). As someone who has visited multiple times, and has family who lived there, the taxi situation from the airport is ridiculous and the monorail is functionally useless. The monorail doesnt connect to the airport, is hidden at the back of the casinos, and almost every person arriving from the airport is going to a linear corridor that's a few miles long. An elevated metro system along the strip would alleviate the traffic concerns considerably and reduce the impacts on residents.
The Boring Company is coming to solve this. And they are certainly NOT stupid tunnels. This will be an underground Uber like service that is point to point and not bothered with above ground traffic or weather and in comfort and security as you ride alone. Over 2 million people have already used the small part that has been completed by the Convention Center. and gets glowing reviews from riders. Virgin and Encore will be next very shortly.
@ my dude, they are literally less efficient trains. 2 million riders in 3+ years is not a lot. Vegas residents and visitors deserve a proper public transportation service.
@@MrPatpaty You do understand the loop currently only runs about 50 days a year for about 8 hours a day, right? LA has costed taxpayers $1B per mile of subway. The loop? ZERO. Win.
@@mikelfrance-l6xridiculous
@@mikelfrance-l6x I won’t defend LA construction costs, but their system does move 61m ppl per year. 50 days/year isn’t a public transit system. Also Clark county paid $50m for
Hi Kym, I think your videos are some of the best , keep up the good work and happy holidays.
@@rcbrproductions8296 Notice his great photos as he complained about the Rolls ride-my complaint is the commentators interrupting the conversation going on inside the cars. I don’t need to hear them; I want to hear the drivers.
Extra security could have been due to an unpublicized security threat or added protection due to global issues. Happy you and your son won and donated that cash. Thank you for all of the wonderful videos 🏎🏁
You have to think what the PR would have been if something bad happened. So, overkill is better than a kill. Its the world today, unfortunately. As stated T mobile was really easy to get through security.
@ Excatly. Especially with previous issues with drivers being assaulted for their watches. Better to have extra security for the drivers, teams and fans. Wouldn’t want it any other way 🏎🏁
8:34 they’ve announced a karting circuit in the pit lane and a few other experiences will be opening in the new year
Being kicked out of stands in 2023….NO one will remember what happened on the track but those that were kicked out and got the $200 merch credit? They’ll talk about it for years. Badge of honor.
I didn't even get the voucher because I had tickets to Friday too. They were different tickets on the pit straight. I didn't have tickets to Saturday though and only flew in for 2 days. So yea I didn't get jack
Toronto here - Kym you met me in Montreal and signed my book! Despite the 1AM start we were able to get about 20-25 people out to watch the race at a local bar. I do agree that it should be pushed back another hour cause 1:00am is asking a lot of people on the east coast! See you in Montreal next year.
Nova scotia here. It was 2 am for us lol. I couldn't stay up for it
Honestly I loved exploring Vegas and seeing a different side of the city! I heard a lot from the locals about having a hard time coming and going from work but it did bring a lot more people out this year then last!
Well done!
Wrong. Vegas local here. F1 does not bring more people out. It was dead. An event like F1 isn't even a blip for this town except for all the headaches it causes locals for 3 months out of the year. This race is done after next year, they will take the exit clause.
@@mkuslerit was literally sold
Out race night. I was there at the sphere and have video of every seat occupied come 10pm stop this BS narrative.
@@mkuslerWrong. Actual Vegas local here. Vegas native, even. The race was jammed-packed with fans, it was such an experience. People were loving it left and right, saying that it was a rush and it's a wild ride. I'm certain that the Vegas GP is here to stay for many years.
@@greatBLT😂😂😂
The meet-and-greet was awesome! Glad you enjoyed the T-shirts-had to represent 😂😂.
This was my first F1 event, and the experience didn’t disappoint. We started by booking a hotel on the Strip and waited until the day of to snag tickets. Managed to grab FP1 and FP2 at the Sphere for just $90 with fees-not bad at all.
On race day, I explored different vantage points along the Strip to soak in the action. Out of curiosity, I checked prices for paddock tickets-$4K for a package of four, with all food and beverages included. Honestly, that’s a solid deal if you’ve got a group and want to be in the heart of it all.
Eastern time zone here, hell yeah I stayed up and watched the race live even though I have a subscription to F1TV and could have watched any time. Had to see Max secure that 4th title live.
same here
Some things locals need to consider for F1…
It took 5 months less this year to setup and tear down will be done a lot quicker.
The legit road closures didn’t start until race weekend.
They block the bridges to prevent 5,000 clogging up the path. The random coverings of let’s say dennys? Does seem a little too much I agree.
They did a community day before the race for local kids and UNLV students to get a tour of the garage and meet drivers. They also gave away 600 tickets to locals only. They also had some events just before the race free for locals.
The prices weren’t super crazy as last year. For example, grandstand tickets for race night were $400. Standing room were less than $300. You can attend all practices and qualifying for less than $600 total including the race. It’s still expensive yes but considering everything in Vegas is such as UFC events and Raider tickets…it’s no different. Last I checked it’s still around $250 for nose bleed raider tickets after tax.
For the people affected by closures trying to get to work, yall should be mad at your employer such as the casino’s. They made millions from F1. I fully think you should be compensated for having to leave early, whether that’s extra pay, PTO, bonus’s etc.
Ultimately it was another huge success as Saturday night was sold out in all the GA zones minus standing room. I checked Saturday morning and every seat was sold out online (there is no reason for F1 to lie on their website). I was there Saturday night and have video of every seat occupied by 10pm. Sure the free practice and qualifying was fairly empty as it typically is at most races.
Itll definitely be coming back for years to come as long as Vegas/casinos keep making money. It’s also one of the most exciting races of the F1 season when it comes to street circuits. Last year, it had more overtakes than any other F1 circuit and most all time for a brand new track for F1. I do think they should do the race in October when temps are warmer as that’s the biggest complaint drivers have for tire performance.
Exactly. Even Bellagio was half the time of last year. The Strip is torn up most of the year anyway. No one complained about the Horseshoe taking 2 lanes away for nearly 2 years but they complain about F1 taking one lane away. Go figure.
Bruce Buffer should announce the top 3 drivers in the podium ceremony... that would fit nicely, now what they do is very cringe
Hi kym, i dont know if you can bring this up to the higher people. But they can treat the general admission viewers better. It’s a $350 dollar GA ticket, 400 after taxes and fees. Flamingo zone in particular. They provided two bleacher style platforms that caters first come first serve. If you came to the zone at 6pm you will end up watching from the screen, a very expensive watch party. There is enough space between the two platforms to accommodate another structure to make all GA ticket holders happy. Even if you made it to the platform, once you go out the perimeter to buy merch or food and drinks, you lose your seat and is practically impossible to get back inside since there are hundreds waiting to be seated. I have tried gen admission before (walk about in singapore) and this is by far the most expensive and worst experience i had. They don’t even need to make a bleacher platform, just elevate the ground so viewers can get an angle over the barriers. Imagine a drs straight and what you get to see is a screen angled diagonally and the rear wing of a 200 mph f1 car.
Don’t worry, the race only has one more season before they pull the plug
Look at what the actual numbers of race attendees were
F1 says 306K attended Las Vegas race; police report lower number) - Las Vegas Metro police tell 8 News Now that 139,000 people attended this year's Las Vegas Grand Prix over its three nights
I can promise you the vast majority of the people who showed up to your meet and greet are not from the Las Vegas area that's a very terrible polling population
I live in the East Coast, I was so tired from work all day long and I stayed up as much I could but fell asleep around lap 15, woke up at lap 33 and finished the race. I enjoyed the race but not the viewing experience haha, I'm just happy to see Max get his 4th title!
I was in the West Harmon Grandstand and it was absolutely packed for the driver's parade. And as I commented on a previous video, definitely didn't run out of the drinks. Definitely an expensive weekend, but even at West Harmon Grandstand (which was one that it felt like they treated as an afterthought), it was a wonderful time.
Ordered my Fernando print thanks for making it happen
Really enjoy the content being put out on this channel. So unbiased and real. Keep it up Kym!
I actually fell asleep during the race and woke up during the podium ceremonies.
I like to imagine your avatar on this youtube account is an accurate representation of your facial expression when you woke up during the ceremonies.
So dope, you captured Travis “Taco” at 4:49.
The Las Vegas Grand Prix is so cool to watch on videos and in person literally looks like a video game
12am start time for me. not ideal, but definitely better than last year. then again, ill wake up at 3am for china gp. a couple inconvenient start times a season is manageable for me.
As a night owl, I love the far-east races and watch most of the European ones on DVR. (I’m on PST). But it would make sense to move the race back to like 8pm.
It was the same start time as last year.
@moxbroker i guess you're right. For some reason I thought it was 1am my time.
I went on Thursday with my brother the sphere area. I was surprised by the free food. I got free drinks as well. We saw New Republic Live it was an incredible time. The F1 building should be open as a store and fan experience all year we would go as locals.
My mom in the bottom left at 6:43 😁 not the most pleasant picture of her hahaa
We were in the south Koval zone during the racer announcement ceremony and we were completely full in each grandstand at that point
I come here for your take on racing but it is more and more about selling.
I wish all races were run at the right time for locals/ the country they’re in.
My favourite part of being an f1 fan is getting up at ungodly hours. It’s my way of being committed, and it feels like the only people up at that time are like minded fans. Then, you turn on the tv at 4am and its lights, colour excitement and bright eyed and bushy tailed commentators. It’s kind of magic.
Agreed! As a lifelong F1 fan here in the US, waking at odd hours here to watch a live F1 race from across the planet is part of the ritual. Makes it feel like a truly global sport, reminds you that racing really is a big deal in other countries and that F1 is a contest for a World Championship. It helps the viewer get out of a provincial mindset and appreciate that others do it a bit differently, and bring their local passion to the game. And that's a part of why I enjoy Kym's content and perspective so much. It's a small price to pay to follow such a shared culture!
hahaha thats a great way to put it! I will not stay up at late hours or wake up early on a Sunday for any other sport besides F1☺
Kym could you please do a video off your journey to becoming a formula 1 photographer, I would imagine it’s a good story!!
Thank you , Kym.....for an objective review of the Las Vegas G.P.......The views and venue closely resembles Singapore. I do think the ticket prices for this event should be more affordable to the "average" fan.....Merry Christmas !
I've been to Sinapore and there are similarities. Its very hot in Singapore and very cold in Vegas. But you can walk easily from the hotels to the event. Singapore had more support races which I think Vegas should have. Vegas entertainment however is the best of any in F1. So, for the entire time you send at the event you have a lot of fun other than watching a race. Also I felt Vegas had better and more TV screens and higher stands to see more of the track better. But Singapore is a good event to go to as well.
US fans are notorious for not showing up for the opening acts (see: L.A. Dodgers fans).
Kym agree, Las Vegas new that the F1 was coming and should have taken into account the F1 drivers want consistency between the F1 events. Traffic is always bad so get over it Vegas! Thanks Kym another great and quality update. Take care!
Cheers
Such a cool mclaren hat on the guy at the 2min mark. Seen that guy in several vids. What a fan!
I was at the “cesar Zone” it was extremely cool to be 30’ from the track but extremely hard to see much being that low. Will definitely try the sphere or pit straight next year.
Vegas local here. I went Saturday night and sat in the T-MOBILE grandstand at the Sphere. Only downside was we didn't have a good view of a screen. A new building is going up on the southeast corner of turn 14. Maybe there will be some sort of hospitality zone there in 2 years. F1 needs to put something more meaningful on Thursday night if they want people to attend. With all of the other options for entertainment only the most diehard race fans are buying tickets to watch practice.
Kym, you look spent.😊 But look how much fun you had. The only things you are missing is a professional pro bono camera bag carrier. This would help to keep you refreshed. If needed, I absolutely know someone. Keep it up and I am a subscriber.
The race had some crazy moments, and I think max drove a very smart and wise one…great video again! Hope you guys have avoided the big fire up in Wedge Island etc..safe travels
Most comfortable timings in india for vegas gp, sunday morning 11 am
For race day I was in the main grandstands and I had plenty of empty seats around me sooooo yea. I still enjoyed every second of the race though
Glad to you hear you enjoyed it
@ yesss. And some legend gave me his orange Max Verstappen shirt too!
I still think FOM needs to get their ticket pricing right; there is a lot of budget sensitivity in the public atm, and it's extremely difficult to rationalize the premium that F1 is charging for attendance at this event. Doesn't matter how many celebrities they parade about or burgers are included in the ticket price.
The Fan Expierence and the ferrari race was def a great addition this year.
Televised during the day in Australia and a track where you can actually overtake. I am a fan.
I love attending this race because of the walkability. I stay at the Cosmopolitan and had easy access to the West Harmon zone for my cheap LH44 tickets. Because that zone has no entertainment, it is much better on the food lines and porta potty counts. I was at the Sphere last year and I think $500 GA Sphere tickets or $700 West Harmon grandstand tickets are the way to go for a fan on a tighter budget.
Nice summary. liked and subbed.
I’ve been going to COTA for years and I would LOVE to see F2 or F3 along with the F1 race at the track. I watch all the races and I think people need to give F2 and F3 a chance because there is some great racing going on.
From Texas and happily stayed up until 1am for the race haha.. just an excuse to party and watch the race after the bars
During the race you can see on the broadcast in some stands were half full.
Good day Kym, I reside here in southern Nevada and I am a huge F1 fan. With F1 races in multiple time zones world wide I DVR nearly all of them. I'm certain folks in Europe as well as on the east coast of The U.S. have that capability, hence the starting time is my greatest complaint here. Run the race at 7:pm as you said! I was very disappointed in the amount of dust on the track/street. This city has many motorized Street Sweepers, that problem could have been solved easily. My only other complaint was the singing of America's National Antum! Personally it was the worst rendition I have ever heard in my life. Kym as you pointed out the racing was not as good as the 2023 race, however it was above average in passing and I enjoyed it totally. Thanks for your video's, safe travels and stay safe out there.
Kym: again; we here in NYC (loyal fan where Japan 3pm= 3am in NYC yet we stay up for race) found the 1am start ridiculous. From watching all F1 races since race #1 and knowing "Lights Out" are usually locally 2 or 3pm, we can live with the Europe starts around 9 am. Perfect. Finally, 2:30 am waiting for a drive around on the track before interviews and podium ????? Horrible.
The racing was GREAT! (If you're a Russell fan as I am.)
Hello Kym, great video.
Let's get Kym to 400k people!
Bring it on before NY
Hey Kym there is fan seating at turn 14/15 but it’s rented out by the Golden Nugget at Bubba Gump. My Wife, Brother and I were there for the race. You’re right though it’s a great spot for the race.
They have the race at night to highlight the neon lights and the sphere.
Cool. It gets dark at 5pm. Try again.
Would love to see a video like this when F1 comes to Cape Town!! and we all know that a Cape Town street circuit would be better than a Kyalami race
I'm not getting up early for F1, not for this race or for other races. We always watch the races in the evening as a family. During the day we like to do other things, but it works out well as long as you stay off social media and don't listen to the news. I liked the Las Vegas race, I just wish they would skip the whole driving to somewhere for the interviews, drive back again and all that. It just takes way too long when you're watching.
My friends in the US had an expo/function at the pit building earlier in the year.
I absolutely love your videos Kym! 1:47 do those F1 curbs stay up the whole weekend, or they are put in a few hours before that days running?
Thanks mate I always learn something watching your content. Out of curiosity, how do you sell your professional photography? To individuals to businesses and how do you show them what you have for sale? Would be an interesting video
You got my sub. Love the videos Kym. Keep it up and thank you.
Welcome aboard
Any street circuit that isn't the pretty annual processional farce that is Monaco is a win for me
Regarding the food/bar concessions, one issue no one is mentioning is how Red Bull stopped the sale of their drinks before the race so that the Red Bulls they had on display in the refrigerators could be used for *advertisement*
Lets be honest here. There's not much to see in F1 and Ferrari Challenge practices. Better to stay inside and play the tables. Also the first night was the coldest.
I sat at the Sphere Thursday and it was very empty. The food was disappointing, even compared to last year. One Republic concert was fun between sessions. The Pit building is opening to the public in spring of 2025 supposedly.
I watched the race from the Strip, but if you want to watch the corner where all the passing happens, you have to deal with cops yelling at you to move along up and down the stairs.
By race day the stands were what, 'chock-a-block'?? I had to look it up. Classic Aussie!
7 pm race start works much better for us in Ontario Canada.
We like to watch the entire show which means staying up until 4 am 🥱
I use to come to Vegas in early December for 2 reasons. 1. Lower room prices and do some Xmas shopping. But now with The Strip being unwalkable or easy to get around - forget it. Vegas use to be Fun and Easy to get around to all the Casino's on the Strip - No More. The Only People to Benefit from F1 are Billionaire Strip Owners and Rich People Fans.
A 19.00 start will be terrible for the people in Europe. The current start time meant I had to be in front of the TV at 07.00 which is doable but getting up at 04.00 won't be happening.
Anyone else was annoyed by the Buffer intros? I already find them painful for 2 boxers, for 20 drivers it was ear torture… Loved the race though, and great report from Kim as usual 👍
Are those numbers tickets sold, or actual tickets claimed thru the turnstiles? FP1/FP2/FP3 did look very sparse as you mentioned vs last year (not that FP1/FP2 day is usually highest attendance days). Not saying it looks like a bad event, but it looks expensive to run and if they had to do that massive drop on ticket prices in the late days that's not a good sign for long term.
it'd be cool to see it as a dusk to night race. i was way happier w/ 1am as an east-coaster. last year 3 am was a total piss take.
if its at 7pm it would be perfect even 8 pm, I know is hard on euro viewers but remember us here in the USA sometimes we got to see races at 4 or 5 am when they are on asia .
The 3 drivers driven to another spot after the race for interviews is so stupid and such a waste of time
- If I were to go , The Sphere area will be my choice . It’s such a cutesy facade !
I don't mind the tickets being a year in advance. Would have been good if the Australian GP did this instead of being close to the event and driving a huge demand (and then using in-demand pricing) thereby increasing prices even more
Australians have to wake up at some ungodly time of the morning (somewhere between 2am and 5am usually) to watch many of the EU races so the EU can suck it up to wake up early for the LV GP.
The worst part about having the races early hours on Monday morning for Australia/New Zealand is that many wouldn't be able to watch the race until later that day after work by which time some news article or YT channel has often spoiled the result by putting it directly in the title! If it's not in the title then of course it's easy to avoid.
I didn't like the 2023 LV GP, but I liked this years one because they toned down the spectacle of it and the race was really very great even though we didn't get so much as a yellow flag.
Your numbers are wrong.....306K didn't attend
Better take that up with F1.
@KymIllman you were there....did you see the stands packed with 102,000 people per day on Thursday or Friday?
Las Vegas PD agree with you. LVMPD’s Office of Public Information reported 57,000 people attended the race Saturday night - the most-attended night. A spokesperson added that 32,000 people attended Thursday and 50,000 attended Friday.
The total number would put attendance over the three race days at 139,000.
Atlantic Canada here. This is the only race i won't watch live on TSN+ this season. I watched it last year for the maiden voyage.
Vegas is Vegas. There won't ever be a reduction in price. Gotta keep the poors poor
I honestly think Las Vegas GP needs to at least host races from mulitple race series for the entire week to be worth the ticket price.
ok moto unc ill sub, i like your perspective
It was insane that you got free drinks at the bars, it took so long to get water. And no separate water filling stations to refill your water bottles! Terrible foresight in that regard
I have not seen anything going on in the paddock building or media buildings, but they say they're going to have go-karts and racing simulators there, as well as some old cars and merch. Still waiting to see if there's anything else they can do but they've kinda locked themselves in with making the whole building about racing.
Kym are you going to have a video on your reflections on the circuits you’ve been this year?
Vegas is loaded with tourists all the time. F1 didn't increase tourism, by any means -- just changed the tourists' names. So, no positive economic impact. And likely some negative. The race screwed up tourism for six weeks before and a couple weeks after. My wife and daughter went to Vegas about 4 weeks before the race. Race preparations made it impossible or very difficult to visit several of the restaurants and attractions they had meant to see. They were disappointed. Put a damper on their vacation. They certainly won't go back within 8 weeks of another F1 race.
I can honestly say I got up at 1:00 am an ungodly hour only fit for star gazing but I watched til about lap 30 and decided George was trye whispering again and had it in the bag.
Sprint race would add more track action and more support races would be better bit earlier timing... Novelty will wear of in local country to make Europe TV time...
Thanks for the as always excellent video Kim. You always say "LOS" Vegas. Making me think, is it actually meant to be said like that?
Agree that it's one of the best races for on track action, very much enjoyed the race on TV