Nevada – known for its unrivaled freedoms – legalized recreational cannabis in 2016. Since then, its consumption by citizens has continued to increase. The figures are dizzying: 4.4 million kilos consumed each year through, among other things, the recent opening of consumption lounges. As a result, the city of Las Vegas has become a popular destination for this very special tourism. During the Grand Prix, this reality asserted itself in spectacular fashion. Red Bull driver Sergio Perez expressed his dismay at the strong smell of marijuana permeating the circuit: “It’s out of control, totally unbelievable, and I’m already tired of it,” he told our colleagues from the media ESPN.
The smell is so intense that it disturbs the drivers during their laps. Some – like the young driver Franco Colapinto – even joked about the possible consequences: “If we do a doping test now, we will all be positive,” he told the Argentine press. The joke, however, reflected a reality: the smell invaded the city from the streets to the stands.
A strange experience in Vegas
Las Vegas – often nicknamed Sin City or the city of vice – has always cultivated a reputation for permissiveness, and this Grand Prix is no exception. The city combines innovations fair, car racing, entertainment, and now a strong presence of cannabis. This uniqueness brings an unexpected touch to the event, but could also raise questions about health, the experience of spectators and the concentration of drivers.
Upcoming discussions for Formula 1
With drivers like Perez expressing their discontent, this topic could be on the agenda for discussions between the FIA and organizers. Knowing that the Vegas atmosphere attracts crowds, the lingering smell of marijuana could become an issue. It remains to be seen whether Formula 1 will have to take measures to reconcile spectacle and the well-being of participants.
