The Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix returns to the iconic Las Vegas Strip for its second consecutive year, from November 21-23, 2024. Racing fans can catch the main event on Saturday, November 23, at 10 PM PT, with live coverage on ESPN showcasing the neon-drenched spectacle. 

The 3.8-mile track winds through the heart of the Las Vegas Strip, with speeds reaching up to 217 mph as drivers zoom past landmarks like the Bellagio Fountains and Caesars Palace. With Sin City synonymous with gambling, the question arises: Can you bet on the Las Vegas Grand Prix?

The answer? It depends – on where you are, how old you are and whether you’re betting legally.

Who can bet on the F1 race in Las Vegas?

Sports betting in Nevada

In Nevada, the home of the Las Vegas Grand Prix, sports betting is legal and widely accessible. From famed sportsbook lounges at casinos like Caesars and MGM to a plethora of apps, fans have no shortage of options. To legally bet in Nevada, you must be at least 21 years old and physically present in the state.

For those who wish to bet online in Las Vegas, new members of a sportsbook must download the app, visit the app’s partner casino location, complete an application and create an account in person and make your first deposit in cash. 

Sports betting in other U.S. states

Outside of Nevada, the legality of betting on F1 depends on the state. Including Nevada, 38 states (plus Washington D.C.) allow legal sports betting, with 30 of them (plus D.C.) allowing online mobile sports betting. Anywhere sports betting is legal, F1 betting is legal. Many platforms, including FanDuel and DraftKings, offer extensive F1 betting markets with competitive odds. However, each state has its own rules, including age restrictions (usually 21+) and residency requirements for mobile app sign-ups. Missouri has (at least for now) voted to legalize sports betting in the state, but it isn’t expected to live until mid-2025 at the earliest. 

If you’re planning to bet, check your state’s regulations to ensure you’re using a licensed, legal sportsbook. People in states without legalized sports betting sometimes gravitate toward illegal offshore platforms or bookies, which come with significant risks – more on that later.

Who is favored to win the F1 Las Vegas race?

Last year’s Las Vegas Grand Prix winner, Max Verstappen, remains the favorite heading into the 2024 race. The Dutchman has already secured three Formula 1 World Drivers’ Championship titles with Red Bull Racing. Odds at major sportsbooks, like FanDuel, currently list Verstappen at +220 to win.

However, the competition this year is fierce. Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, last year’s runner-up, comes in at +250, while McLaren’s Lando Norris, another fan favorite, shares co-favorite status at +220. With podium finishes in six of the last eight events, Leclerc’s recent results makes him a strong contender.

Other notable drivers to watch include Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz (+600) and McLaren’s rising star Oscar Piastri (+1200). Keep an eye on qualifying rounds and practice sessions leading up to the main race, as these can provide key insights into each driver’s form.

Who won the F1 Las Vegas race last year?

The 2023 Las Vegas Grand Prix delivered drama, high speeds and an unforgettable finish. Max Verstappen emerged victorious in a race filled with safety car periods and nail-biting incidents. Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc and Red Bull teammate Sergio Perez filled out the podium. 

Avoid offshore sportsbooks, bookies and sweepstakes

While it may be tempting to use offshore sportsbooks or participate in sweepstakes betting, these options are fraught with risks. Offshore operators are unregulated, meaning bettors have little recourse in cases of disputes, delayed payouts or denied winnings. Additionally, offshore sportsbooks contribute nothing to local economies, unlike licensed platforms that fund state programs.

For legal and secure betting, stick to regulated U.S. sportsbooks. Not only do they provide consumer protections, but they also ensure fair play and higher levels of transparency. Avoid sweepstakes betting, as recent regulatory crackdowns highlight questions around its legality and reliability.

F1 Betting: Responsible Gaming tips and best practices

Big events like the Las Vegas Grand Prix can heighten excitement, making it easy to lose track of spending. Here are some tips for responsible betting:

  1. Know Your Limits: Set a budget for your sports gambling on F1 and stick to it. Treat your bets as entertainment expenses, not investments.

  2. Understand the Odds: Educate yourself on F1 betting markets, including outright winners, fastest laps and driver matchups.

  3. Use Time and Deposit Limits: Many apps allow you to set restrictions, helping you stay in control.

  4. Don’t Bet What You Can’t Afford to Lose: Never gamble with money needed for essentials like rent or bills.

  5. NEVER CHASE LOSSES: One of the most dangerous betting behaviors is betting more in hope of winning back what was lost. This can lead to a dangerous spiral of significant losses and potential issues with gambling addiction. Chasing losses is the most common behavior that some Birches Health clinicians see in those with gambling problems. 

Gambling Addiction treatment from the comfort of home

If betting starts to interfere with your finances, relationships or well-being, it may be time to seek help. Birches Health offers confidential, specialized support for those struggling with gambling addiction. With resources like therapy from licensed counselors, free support groups and self-assessment tools, Birches Health provides comprehensive care tailored to your needs.

Ready to take the first step?

Bet responsibly – and enjoy the thrill of the F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix without letting gambling take over the experience.

Sources:

Forbes

Legal Sports Report

Formula 1