LAS VEGAS (KLAS) – Fans from around the world enjoyed the first day of the F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix race week on Thursday at the T-Mobile Fan Zone at Sphere.
The site, located next to the F1 track near Koval Lane and Sands Avenue, offered a variety of experiences before and after the first 2024 practice rounds.
Many who spoke with 8 News Now said they traveled from places such as San Diego, Atlanta, and even Denmark, just to experience the race in Las Vegas.
“There are not too many opportunities to see a race like this,” F1 fan Matt Wolfson said. “Especially in Vegas, racing down the Strip.”
“I’m really excited to see how fast they go,” F1 fan Peter Jensen added.”
Several performers took the stage through the night Thursday, including headliner One Republic.
A variety of catered food options were also offered at no charge with a fan zone ticket.
Those who spoke with 8 News Now after watching practice rounds said it was fun and exciting, even though the temperatures dropped.
“First time hearing the cars in person,” F1 fan Dani Doroff said. “It was wonderful.”
8 News Now also spoke with a Las Vegan who said he worked to construct the track over the past few years, so it meant even more to see everything come together.
“I’ve seen it from the outside, Las Vegas local Tom Burns said. “Now actually getting to go, it’s pretty neat.”
Gates open to the T-Mobile Zone at 4:30 p.m. on Friday for F1 Practice 3, Ferrari Challenge Race 1, and F1 Qualifying at 10:00 p.m.
