F1 Las Vegas 2025: Weather, History & Watch Guide

The Thrill Returns: Your Complete Guide to the 2025 F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix

As the lights of the Las Vegas Strip illuminate the night sky, Formula 1's most glamorous race returns for its fourth edition in November 2025. The Las Vegas Grand Prix promises high-speed drama under the desert stars, but what makes this weekend truly unique? From its dramatic history to critical weather considerations, here’s everything you need to know.

When and Where to Watch: Your ESPN Schedule

ESPN will be your exclusive home for all the action throughout the race weekend. Coverage begins with Practice 1 on Thursday, November 13, 2025, continuing through Practice 2 and 3, Qualifying on Saturday, and culminating in the main event on Sunday, November 16. Races start at 10:00 PM local time (1:00 AM ET), transforming the Strip into a neon-lit circuit unlike any other in F1.

Pro tip: Set reminders on your calendar – these late-night starts are part of the Vegas spectacle but require planning!

Vegas Weather: The Wildcard in the Desert

While Las Vegas weather in November is generally mild, it can be unpredictable. Daytime temperatures typically hover around 70°F (21°C), dropping to the 50s°F (10-15°C) at night. The real challenge? Weather Las Vegas can bring sudden gusty winds or unexpected rain showers, especially as dusk falls. These conditions dramatically affect aerodynamics and tire strategy, potentially turning qualifying and the race into a tactical battle.

Last year’s event saw drivers navigate cooling track temperatures and shifting grip levels as the race progressed. Teams constantly monitor forecasts, as a sudden temperature drop could make a soft tire compound the optimal choice.

A Blast from the Past: The Original Vegas GP

Many don't realize this isn't F1's first rodeo in Sin City. The inaugural Las Vegas GP in 1981 made history with a dramatic championship finale. Nelson Piquet clinched his first title in a nail-biting showdown against Carlos Reutemann at the Caesars Palace parking lot circuit – yes, really! Journalist David Tremayne recalls:

"As race day dawned dry and very hot (75°F), Reutemann suffered a mysterious slump from pole to sixth, while Piquet struggled physically but secured fifth place to win the title by a single point. It remains one of F1's most perplexing championship deciders."

The 1982 race repeated the magic with another title decider between Keke Rosberg and John Watson, cementing Vegas' legacy as a championship crucible.

2025 Storylines: Who Can Dethrone the King?

With Max Verstappen eyeing a fourth consecutive title, challengers like Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri will be hungry for an upset. The Vegas circuit’s unique blend of high-speed straights and tight technical corners demands perfect car balance and driver bravery. Expect fierce battles through the famous Strip section, where the proximity of the walls creates zero-margin-for-error racing.

Why Vegas is F1's Ultimate Show

Beyond the track, the Las Vegas Grand Prix is an immersive experience. From celebrity-studded hospitality to the electric atmosphere of the city, it’s F1 as entertainment. The night race format creates a visually stunning spectacle, with cars illuminated against the backdrop of mega-casinos and landmarks like the Bellagio fountains.

Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual observer, the Vegas GP delivers a unique blend of sport and spectacle. As the engines rev under the desert stars, one thing is certain: this weekend will be unforgettable.