Liberty Media agrees $3-million settlement over chaotic 2023 Las Vegas Grand Prix practice

The Formula 1 owner, which also promotes the Las Vegas event, faced legal action after fans were removed from viewing areas before the delayed second practice session began. The proposed settlement covers spectators who held tickets exclusively for the opening practice night on November 16, 2023, as well as eligible three-day ticket holders.

Claims must be submitted by August 27. A final approval hearing is scheduled for November 4 at the United States District Court for the District of Nevada. Liberty Media and the Las Vegas Grand Prix have not admitted liability or wrongdoing as part of the agreement.

The disruption began only nine minutes into first practice when Carlos Sainz drove over a loose water valve cover. The impact caused extensive damage to the floor, chassis and power unit of his Ferrari, forcing officials to stop the session while the circuit underwent emergency inspections and repairs.

Practice eventually resumed during the early hours of November 17, with the extended 90-minute session concluding at approximately 4am local time. However, spectators had already been instructed to leave the viewing areas. Organisers cited logistical and staffing concerns as the lengthy delay pushed the event deep into the night.

The handling of the incident led to widespread criticism from supporters, particularly those who had purchased single-night tickets and saw only nine minutes of competitive running. The lawsuit subsequently sought compensation for affected spectators, with the proposed $3 million agreement now potentially bringing the legal dispute to an end.

The incident represented an embarrassing opening for an event intended to showcase Formula 1’s growing presence in the United States. The Associated Press report an estimated $500 million was invested in creating a street circuit around the Las Vegas Strip, including permanent paddock facilities owned by Liberty Media.

Preparations had already frustrated businesses and residents after months of road closures, construction work and traffic disruption across the city.

Despite the troubled build-up and chaotic practice night, the race itself produced one of the most competitive Grand Prix races of the 2023 season.

Max Verstappen recovered from a penalty and contact with George Russell to claim his 18th victory of the year, beating Charles Leclerc and Sergio Perez.

Verstappen marked the occasion by singing “Viva Las Vegas” as he crossed the finish line, providing Formula 1 with the celebratory ending its expensive new flagship event desperately needed.