F1 champ Max Verstappen not happy with Las Vegas Grand Prix excess: 'I don't like all the things around it'

Fox News Flash top sports headlines are here. Check out what's clicking on Foxnews.com.

After more than a four-decade wait, the highly anticipated Las Vegas Grand Prix will finally make its debut in Las Vegas this week. 

However, reigning three-time Formula One champion Max Verstappen seems less than pleased about the extravagance surrounding the event. Verstappen described the upcoming race as something that is "99% show and 1% sporting event." 

He also said he felt like "a clown" when he stood on stage during the opening ceremony. 

Multiple notable music artists performed during a ceremony Wednesday night. Despite the Formula One president's request that all drivers attend the VIP party in Las Vegas, Verstappen was a no-show.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

Red Bull driver Max Verstappen of the Netherlands speaks to the media ahead of the Formula One Las Vegas Grand Prix race Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2023, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/Nick Didlick)

"I just like to always focus on the performance side of things. I don’t like all the things around it, anyway. I know, of course, in some places they are part of it, but let’s say it’s not in my interest," the Red Bull driver said.

"I’m looking forward to try to do the best I can, but I’m not looking forward to (the show)."

LAS VEGAS READY FOR F1 RACES AFTER A YEAR OF CONSTRUCTION PREPARING FOR THE EVENT

This weekend's race on the famous Las Vegas Strip is F1's first attempt at promoting its own grand prix. F1 and it's owner, Liberty Media, reportedly spent hundreds of millions of dollars leading up to the race.

The Las Vegas Grand Prix marks the third F1 stop this year in the U.S.. Seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton argued the market demand is strong enough