The final practice session before qualifying for the 2025 Las Vegas Grand Prix took place on Friday, November 21st, under the bright lights of the Las Vegas Strip, setting the stage for what is expected to be an exhilarating night race. This critical session saw top drivers pushing the limits of their cars on the 3.853-mile street circuit, which is known for its challenging combination of fast straights and tight corners.
Charles Leclerc of Ferrari led the final practice with a fastest lap time of 1:34.802, showing strong pace and confidence on the track. Close on his heels was Williams’ Alex Albon just 0.166 seconds behind, followed by Yuki Tsunoda in third driving for Red Bull. Max Verstappen, the reigning world champion, clocked in fourth, signaling that the battle for pole position and the race win will be fiercely competitive.
The Las Vegas circuit, known for its unique nighttime setting, added an extra layer of difficulty due to lower track temperatures and changing visibility conditions. Teams have had to adjust their strategies and setups to suit the street’s characteristics. “The street track demands precision and quick reflexes, and final practice is when we fine-tune everything,” said Red Bull’s race engineer. “Every tenth of a second counts here.”
Spectators and experts alike are excited about the strategic battles that will unfold during qualifying later that night, starting at 11 PM. The final practice session validated the high stakes, with drivers refining their lines and tire choices to optimize performance.
“This is one of the most visually spectacular races on the calendar,” said veteran F1 analyst Ben Anderson. “The combination of the urban environment, the energy of the Strip, and the sheer speed makes it a unique challenge for the teams and a thrilling spectacle for fans.”
As the teams head into qualifying, the focus will be on translating their practice pace into a fast lap when it counts, as grid position could be pivotal on this challenging circuit. While Leclerc appears strong, the close times from his rivals suggest we could see surprises.
