Who really benefits from the coffer-filling bonanza that takes place over the course of three days in sin city?

According to the workers in the bars and restaurants, it’s not them.

As soon as I checked into my hotel, I did what anyone would do: head to the bar and soak in the vibes and get your bearings for the weekend.

I seemed to be alone in that sentiment, as I was one of only a handful of customers present. Naturally, the inevitable ‘so where is everybody’ question arose.

The Incident wasn’t isolated either, just a short 5 minute walk to one of the main thoroughfares where race fans pass on the way to the circuit, empty bar seats and sparsely populated dining rooms can be seen from the street.

Hospitality workers have their own theories about why every year they endure the weekend working for greatly diminished tips due to low customer counts. But the main reason (and obvious one) seems to be clear:

F1 Events are Not Cheap.

Factor in the cost of tickets, lodging, and exclusive packages, and it starts to add up. On the official F1 Las Vegas website, premium weekend packages started around $3000 per person.  Many attendees opted for special event packages that include access to private parties, premium viewing areas, and luxury amenities, further driving up the expenses associated with the weekend.

These high costs often mean that visitors have packed itineraries, and that means there is little time or budget for drinks at the bar.

Its no surprise tht the younger Genreration has been part of a social shift when it comes to patronizing bars, and spending money on a night out on the town.

According to a Newsweek Article published in July of 2025, 1 in 4 Americans that follow F1 tend to be between the ages of 18 and 29.

Gen Z's preference for activities other than going to bars and clubs sets them apart from older F1 fans, who primarily like to meet with fellow race goers at bars after the events.

There is no clear answer as to how to make this trend turn around or make it more lucrative for a city’s restaurants/ bar workers, but it could start with making the F1 race weekend as whole easier and affordable for locals.

Making it more accessible for locals is a major concern. They are familiar with the venues, familiar with the hidden gems of the city and where to get a drink. By making it more enticing, say, by offering a discount with a local ID, it would be a great way to spurn business and benefit the process of winning the locals over.

This will be a key factor in sustaining the long-term success and longevity of The Las Vegas Grand Prix for years to come.

Many Businesses faced financial challenges in 2024 due to the heavily restricted access to the public and blocked roads to thier buildings because of F1 related Construction.

During race weekends, locals typically avoid these areas and skip the event. The F1 Las Vegas committee should address these concerns and consult with leaders in the restaurant and hospitality sectors. The current contract with Clark County and the city lasts until at least 2027, but F1 must implement changes to remain in Las Vegas.

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