Source:USA TODAY Sports/Gary A. Vasquez
[Saba Sports News] The criticism against the Las
Vegas Grand Prix in Formula One arises from several factors. Firstly, the
scheduling of back-to-back races between Las Vegas and Qatar presents
logistical challenges due to the significant time difference and the need to
travel long distances. The Las Vegas Grand Prix starts at 10 pm local time,
meaning that post-race activities and interviews extend into the early hours of
the following day. This arrangement places a burden on team members and other
personnel involved in the races, raising concerns about fatigue and potential
accidents. Critics argue that the Formula One Organizing Committee’s decision
to hold races across different time zones in quick succession is unfair to the
teams and support staff. The demanding schedule can have adverse effects on
their well-being and performance. Additionally, hosting the Las Vegas Grand
Prix poses challenges for the city itself. Significant portions of the city
must be closed off during the race, disrupting transportation and causing
inconvenience for residents. If the race were to be held earlier in the day,
roads would need to be closed in the afternoon, which would likely be met with
resistance from local residents. On the other hand, holding the race late at
night accommodates the city’s activities but creates difficulties for European
viewership due to the unfavorable broadcast times. Ultimately, the criticism
reflects the complex trade-offs involved in scheduling Formula One races,
considering the interests of teams, personnel, local residents, and global
audiences. The F1 Organizing Committee faces challenges in finding a balance
between these competing factors while maximizing profitability and maintaining
the sport’s popularity.