More than two weeks ago, F1 packed up after the first Miami Grand Prix, an event which presented a prestigious audience with its host of celebrities. True proof of the growth of interest in Formula 1 in the United States, this phenomenon will continue next year with the return of Las Vegas to the calendar, on a brand new circuit. The single-seaters will take the famous Strip and wind around the casinos in a night race.

Since its first appearance on the calendar, Monaco, which was compared to Miami throughout the Grand Prix weekend, has always been considered “the jewel in the crown” of Formula 1. However, the Florida capital has been established new standards in terms of events, in particular by comparing the Grand Prix to the Super Bowl. For the reigning world champion Max Verstappenalthough this new race was a resounding success, nothing can ever take away the history of an event like Monaco.

“I don’t think you could replace Monaco”said Verstappen. “Monaco has such a history, and of course it takes time to write it. It’s also completely different from Monaco, there’s a lot more room [à Miami] and the atmosphere is different. It’s another culture too, which is good to have, because it would be very boring to drive in places with the same culture all the time. You have to find a balance between these kinds of events [comme Miami]Monaco and, of course, the permanent circuits.”

However, uncertainty reigns over the future of the Rock, given that his contract ends at the end of this season. Thanks to its special status, Monaco does not have to pay fees to host F1, but this privilege could possibly end with a possible new contract.

Esteban Oconfor his part, supported Verstappen’s proposals, the lack of overtaking being the only black point of the circuit. “Monaco is extremely special, there’s a story behind it, and it’s a way of driving that you won’t find anywhere else”explained the Frenchman. “You have to qualify well, and the race is very difficult, especially to overtake, you have to take a risk. For us, it’s completely different.”

However, the Frenchman has also welcomed the growth of his sport across the Atlantic, and is eager to see what the future holds for F1 there. “Coming to the United States, seeing how we are welcomed, it’s great, it’s fantastic and we have seen how much the sport has grown. Miami, Las Vegas, all these cities, it’s a dream for us to come. So yeah, I can’t wait to see what America has in store for us.”