If you want to party go to Ibiza, not Vegas for F1: Verstappen

LAS VEGAS: If you want to party go to Ibiza, suggested Red Bull's triple Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen as the disillusioned Dutchman lamented the lack of passionate, knowledgeable motor racing fans in Las Vegas this weekend.

Las Vegas may have lots of great spots to drink, gamble and see a good show, but Formula 1 is a serious sport and not just another act on the Strip, Formula 1's biggest star said after putting his Red Bull second on the starting grid alongside Ferrari polesitter Charles LeClerc for Saturday (Nov 18) night's race.

"Of course I understand the fans. They need something to do as well around a track," said Verstappen. "But I think it is more important you actually make them understand what we do as a sport.

"Most of them just come to have a party, drink, see a DJ play or watch a performance act. I can do that all over the world, go to Ibiza and get really shit-faced but that's what happens."

"They don't actually understand what we are doing or what we are putting on the line."

Since arriving in Sin City for the much-hyped race, Verstappen has expressed his distain for the showbiz promotion around the event, reminding everyone he is first and foremost a racing driver.

While Las Vegas leaves the 26-year-old cold, it is motorsports' traditional tracks like Spa and Monza that get him fired up.

And until many of those with tickets to the Las Vegas race understand what it is that makes drivers tick, Formula 1 will remain a warmup act for every other performer on the Strip.

If Verstappen wins on Saturday it would extend his single season record to 18 victories and take his career total to 53, leaving him joint-third on the all-time list.

Only Lewis Hamilton (103) and Michael Schumacher (91) have won more.

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