Lewis Hamilton makes demand to FIA at Las Vegas GP and insists ‘F1 can’t be a circus’

Lewis Hamilton has discussed the possible disruption that this weekend’s Formula One race in Las Vegas may cause.

In advance of this weekend’s Grand Prix, Lewis Hamilton has urged the FIA to make sure that appropriate measures are taken to ensure that Formula One is considerate of the people of Las Vegas. Locals have already voiced their complaints about the disruption being caused in the area, and as the race draws closer, more disruption is expected.

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.

“This place is enormous, with something to offer everyone.” Should your desires be to live in a city, the countryside, or the mountains… New York is the greatest city ever, in my opinion, and Vegas is like a giant playground for grownups.