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Former F1 world champion Mario Andretti recently defended the increased number of street circuits on the calendar. In the last few years, there has been an increase in the number of races in a season. The F1 calendar has added new venues, most of which have been street circuits.
Multiple drivers, including Max Verstappen, have questioned the reasoning behind increasing the number of street circuits on the calendar. Drivers have claimed that these tracks lack the characteristics of classic circuits. 1978 F1 world champion Mario Andretti, however, holds a different opinion.
In an exclusive interview with PlanetF1, Andretti was asked if he would prefer to see a move away from the rising number of street circuits on the calendar. He said:
"No, absolutely not. The ambience that they create is unbelievable, unparalleled. Look at the presentation that Miami had, you cannot fault that. That’s a serious investment. When you have that type of investment, that spells longevity and spells a good future. Look what they’re spending in Las Vegas, they’re not spending what they’re spending just to have a one-off."
Andretti added:
"I think there’s something special about the street events. You have to be careful but, the way they’re approaching it now, there’s nothing that can be criticised in my opinion. I remember the last Las Vegas GP, in what was basically a huge parking lot behind Caesar’s Palace. I remember it very well. What is being prepared for right now is monumental."
The next F1 track in Las Vegas will be a street circuit as well
The 2023 F1 season will witness the debut of the Las Vegas Grand Prix in November. The race will be held on a street circuit, which will include the Las Vegas strip as well.
There is a lot of anticipation for Sin City's first Grand Prix event since 1982. It will be held on a 6.12km, 14-turn street circuit as the penultimate stop of the 2023 calendar.
However, much has been said about how street circuits have not been able to provide the best action. Defending champion Max Verstappen has made his displeasure clear when it comes to racing on street tracks. The Red Bull driver has made his dislike for the circuits clear.
