Las Vegas GP preview | What can the drivers and spectators expect?

Matt Baker is joined by former F1 driver and Sky Sports pundit Karun Chandhok to look ahead to a spectacular race weekend of entertainment under the lights of the Las Vegas Strip.
Karun shares what he is excited about the most and gives a unique insight into how the drivers will prepare for the Las Vegas Strip Circuit. He also reveals what challenges the track designers faced when mapping out the track and what he thinks will make the Las Vegas GP a success.

**Navigating the Las Vegas Strip Circuit: A Conversation with Karun Chandhok**

In this episode, Matt Baker engages in a captivating conversation with former F1 driver and Sky Sports pundit Karun Chandhok, delving into the highly anticipated Las Vegas Grand Prix. Chandhok offers a unique perspective on the upcoming race, sharing his excitement about the sporting spectacle and providing insights into the challenges drivers will face on the Las Vegas Strip Circuit.

**The Sporting Spectacle: Unpredictability and Excitement**

Chandhok highlights the unpredictable nature of the Las Vegas track, emphasizing the significant temperature difference between daytime and nighttime. This variation poses challenges for drivers, particularly in terms of tire and brake temperatures. He anticipates the possibility of red flags during qualifying and the race due to the unpredictable conditions.

**Preparing for the Las Vegas Challenge**

Chandhok discusses the preparations drivers undertake to familiarize themselves with a new track. He emphasizes the importance of getting a feel for the layout, experimenting with braking zones, and simulating track conditions using advanced simulators. Additionally, he highlights the role of hybrid systems in managing energy usage during qualifying and the race.

**The Art of Street Circuit Design: Balancing Safety and Excitement**

Chandhok sheds light on the challenges of designing a street circuit, emphasizing the need to prioritize safety while creating a track that offers overtaking opportunities and excitement for drivers and fans. He explains the intricate process of selecting appropriate roads, considering infrastructure limitations, and addressing safety concerns.

**The Allure of the Las Vegas Grand Prix: A Glittering Spectacle**

Chandhok expresses his anticipation for the visual spectacle of the Las Vegas Grand Prix, highlighting the unique opportunity to race under the lights of the iconic Las Vegas Strip. He discusses the logistical challenges of building a temporary circuit while maintaining the city's daily operations and the efforts to create a visually stunning event.

**Defining a Successful Event: A Balance of Sporting and Entertainment Elements**

Chandhok emphasizes the importance of achieving a balance between the sporting spectacle and the entertainment aspects of the event. He believes that a successful Las Vegas Grand Prix should captivate both hardcore F1 fans and newcomers to the sport. He also highlights the role of celebrities and the opening ceremony in attracting a global audience.

**Karun Chandhok's Plans for the Day: Exploring the Track and Gathering Insights**

Chandhok shares his plans for the day, expressing his eagerness to explore the Las Vegas Strip Circuit on foot. He intends to engage with teams and drivers to gain insights into their preparation and simulation work for the weekend's race. Despite not receiving an invitation to the opening ceremony, he remains optimistic and hopes to find a way to experience the event.

The podcast concludes with Chandhok emphasizing the significance of the Las Vegas Grand Prix and expressing his excitement for the upcoming race. He invites listeners to join him next week for a detailed analysis of the Las Vegas Grand Prix.