Lewis Hamilton has called on the FIA to ensure that precautions are taken to ensure Formula One is respectful of Las Vegas residents ahead of this weekend’s Grand Prix. Complaints have already been made by locals about the disruption being caused in the area, and further inconvenience is anticipated as the clock ticks down to the race.
Months of work have been put into ensuring that the return to Las Vegas is an almighty success for the sport, with the race set to run through the iconic Strip in the city centre. Different temporary facilities have been erected and the scene is almost set to welcome F1 back to Nevada.
Expectations are understandably high for the penultimate race of the season, with many Formula One fans flocking to Las Vegas to capture a glimpse of what is set to be a weekend to remember. However, Hamilton has urged everyone involved with the race to be respectful of those who may not be on board with F1 being in the area.
The Mercedes star told Sky Sports F1: “I’ve heard that there’s been a lot of complaints about the event being here from the locals and I think we have to be respectful of the locals. So many people here are working so hard, there’s a lot of money and wealth in this city and also the places we’re going and this industry so we’ve got to make sure that people are taken care of.
“We can’t be a circus that shows up, that’s all glitz and glamour and people are negatively affected by it, in my opinion.”
The Brit has not shied away from speaking about how he is slightly apprehensive about the race and how he and his Mercedes team will be able to get around – but can’t wait for a new experience. Speaking earlier this week, he said: “It’s going to be such a compact spot with so many people, but I think it’s going to be a wild experience.
“The best thing is just to go with an open mind and not have any pre-determined ideas of what it’s going to be like and just take it all in when you get there. Driving in the nightlights I’m going to feel like I’m in the Casino movie! It’s pretty cool. People are going to be coming from all over for the Grand Prix. It’s great that each city here in America gives a different atmosphere but the one thing is they’ve amazing fans, hardcore sporting fans.
“It’s such a huge place and there’s something for everyone here. If you want to be in the mountains, you want to be in the countryside, you want to be in the city… You’ve got New York which I think is the coolest city ever and Vegas which is kind of a big playground for adults.”
