Formula One has officially returned to Las Vegas as the 2025 Las Vegas Grand Prix takes center stage over the next three nights. Kicking off the event, practice sessions are set to begin at 4:30 p.m., followed by the F1 Academy qualifying race starting at 9:30 p.m. on Thursday night. The forecast indicates a possibility of rain, which could create challenging conditions for drivers on the renowned fast circuit known for its exciting atmosphere.
George Russell from Mercedes hopes to defend his victory from last year’s Grand Prix, but the current standings highlight an intense race for the top position this season. Lando Norris of McLaren is leading the 2025 Drivers’ Standings with 390 points, a slim 24 points ahead of his teammate Oscar Piastri, who holds second place with 366 points. Red Bull’s Max Verstappen, the reigning world champion who secured his title in Las Vegas last year with a fifth-place finish, is in third with 341 points. The closeness of this year’s standings marks the tightest race since 2021 when Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton entered the final race tied in points.
As the excitement builds, local traffic is also affected, with road closures beginning at 1 p.m. on race days and expected to reopen at 12:30 a.m. the following day. Drivers using Interstate 15 should prepare for intermittent ramp and lane closures that will remain in effect through November 23, impacting routes including southbound connections to Spring Mountain Rd and Flamingo Rd, among others.
This year’s Las Vegas Grand Prix promises to deliver thrilling racing and unexpected twists, making it an event to watch for both fans and participants alike.