The Las Vegas race is back for its third edition at the Las Vegas Strip Circuit, and it sits as the 22nd round of the Formula One World Championship 2025 season.
With the drivers’ title still contested, this event takes on extra significance. Meanwhile, local news points to possible weather interruptions and even a flood watch ahead of the weekend.
Also, key changes differ from past years: the race timing, conditions and support-programme will all factor in.
Schedule & TV info
All times are local to Las Vegas (Pacific Standard Time, UTC-8). Practice, qualifying and the race unfold over three days:
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Thursday 20 November: First practice from 16:30 until 17:30, second practice from 20:00 until 21:00.
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Friday 21 November: Third practice from 16:30 until 17:30, then qualifying from 20:00 until 21:00.
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Saturday 22 November: The Grand Prix starts at 20:00 local time (planned run for 50 laps or up to two hours).
For viewers in the UK (GMT) the race begins at 04:00 on Sunday morning.
Weather forecast
The weather in Las Vegas will play a key role this weekend. Forecasts for the region show cool conditions, with some risk of showers early in the week.
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On Wednesday 19 November: Intervals of clouds and sun with a passing shower possible; high around 16 °C, low around 7 °C.
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On Thursday 20 November: Mostly cloudy and cool; high near 16 °C, low near 8 °C.
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On Friday 21 November: Cloudy with a brief shower or two; high around 15 °C, low around 10 °C.
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On race day Saturday 22 November: Better weather expected, partial sunshine; high around 20 °C, low around 10 °C.
Implications: Cold ambient and track temperatures mean teams must work hard to warm tyres and maintain grip. If rain touches the surface early in the weekend, it could change the typical degradation patterns and favour cars strong in low-grip conditions.
What to watch
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Tyre warm-up: Cold air means slower warm-up. The teams that get tyres into the right window fastest will gain.
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Qualifying importance: With street layout and limited overtaking opportunities, grid position will matter.
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Weather timing: If rain hits in practice but not in race, those who adapt quickly will benefit.
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Mid-season performance momentum: Teams that find recent pace will carry confidence.
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Strategy flexibility: With cooler track, degradation patterns may differ from hotter races.
Prediction
My view:
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Pole will go to a team with strong one-lap pace and good cold-tyre behaviour. My pick: Red Bull Racing or McLaren F1 Team.
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Race win: Given the conditions and layout I favour Red Bull with Verstappen’s new enginge. McLaren will likely contend due to their pace but I don’t think they’re favourites this weekend. Ferrari and Mercedes will also be in the fight.
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Podium estimate: The podium fight will be between the top four teams head to Las Vegas GP Predictions for further predictions
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Key wildcard: Rain early sessions pushing cold tyres into play. That could upset the usual order.
In short: expect an exciting race under lights, but don’t assume the fastest team before weekend will automatically dominate. Cooler conditions and a street circuit favour setups over sheer power. The championship fight means there will be added pressure.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 Las Vegas Grand Prix blends spectacle and stakes. The schedule starts earlier, the weather brings challenges and the title fight remains alive. If you’re watching, expect a test of adaptability more than repeat domination. The race will reward precision, tyre management and cold-condition execution. Tune in early, stay alert for surprises and enjoy what promises to be a compelling weekend under the lights.
