Mick Schumacher’s plans may have been interrupted ahead of the Las Vegas Grand Prix this weekend. The German driver expressed his anticipation for trips to the casino when the event was initially announced, but Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has assured that none of his team will be gambling at this event.
This will be the first time that F1 has ever raced on the streets of one of the world’s most iconic cities, and the first since 1982 that it has visited it in any capacity following the failed experiment of the Caesars Palace Grand Prix.
With a brand new pit building constructed especially for the circuit and a lavish opening ceremony planned, this is set to be the marquee event of the season. That won’t be where the fun stops for the drivers, though.
In the initial announcement video featuring a large selection of drivers on the grid, Schumacher said: “That’s crazy. I think we’ll find a few drivers in the casinos then – me being one of them.”
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Unfortunately for the 24-year-old, this is unlikely to come to fruition. Speaking to Motorsport.com Spain about the upcoming race, Wolff stated: “As I said, I’ve never been to Las Vegas, but we’ll do our best to make sure everyone in the team stays away from the casinos – I don’t gamble and I’ll make sure no one else gambles either!”
He also offered some comments about the organisation of the event, adding: “I think everyone is looking forward to the Las Vegas race. Racing in this city is comparable to climbing Everest, hats off to Liberty Media for organising this race.
“I don’t think I’m the only one in Formula One who has never been to this city, which is quite difficult to get around. We don’t know how to get from the hotel to the circuit and back, but I’m sure we’ll find a solution. I’m looking forward to the race.”
With Schumacher forced to focus on his Mercedes responsibilities this weekend, conversations will continue about his future away from the team. The German driver recently dismissed the possibility of a career in Formula E with his next move likely to be into the World Endurance Championship.
Schumacher has already held talks and a private test with Alpine as he targets a seat with their Hypercar programme for 2024. The 24-year-old has been absent from the F1 grid this season after losing his drive with Haas.
