F1’s American Gamble: Tradition Meets Transformation on the Las Vegas Strip

Formula 1 has always been considered a European sport, steeped in tradition and exclusivity. While every year, the driver with the most points at the end is crowned the “World Champion,” and the races do occur across 21 separate nations in five continents, the DNA of F1 nonetheless is and always has been distinctly European. In the wake of this past weekend’s Las Vegas Grand Prix, however, I think it’s become clear that this European grounding has eroded. F1 has finally managed to attract Americans. F1 is now courting the United States with a vigor unseen in its history.