This article is part of the “ Beyond the Track ” series, a dive on the surrounding scene, glamor and culture that makes a Grand Prix. Max Verstappen’s fightback from 17th on the grid to win Sunday’s Sao Paulo Grand Prix will go down as one of the most important victories of his Formula One career. Not only did it snap a 10-race streak without a victory (practically a lifetime by Verstappen’s standards), but as Lando Norris slipped from pole position to only finish sixth, the win also put Verstappen on the brink of clinching his fourth world championship.
Advertisement It was a huge power shift, extinguishing hope that Norris could keep the title race alive to the finale in Abu Dhabi. And now, Verstappen could be crowned champion at the Las Vegas Grand Prix on Nov. 23.
Last year’s first running of the race along the famed Las Vegas Strip was a major milestone for F1 . The sport spent over half a billion dollars to make the event happen, including a new, permanent paddock building that serves as its home in the United States, as well as serving as the promoter to run the grand prix. The circuit made sure to incorporate the famed Strip and Sphere, creating a spectacular visual event against the night sky.
Despite a difficult start to the race weekend with the cancellation of first practice and frustration over the scheduling, Las Vegas was one of the best races of the season, including an open fight for the lead that went down to the final laps and universal praise f.
