Marshals: The Key Support Behind The Las Vegas Grand Prix
When the Formula 1® action hits the streets of Las Vegas Nov. 21-23, a dedicated group of race marshals will work around the track to help ensure the race runs smoothly and safely. The Las Vegas Grand Prix Marshals provide crucial support to track safety and ensure race operations run smoothly around the 3.8-mile circuit. While the drivers take center stage, the marshals play an important role in making sure the high-octane Grand Prix goes off without a hitch, contributing to the overall success of the race.
Positioned trackside throughout each day of action, marshals are responsible for a variety of critical tasks to ensure on-track operations remain safe. One of their primary functions is communication with the drivers, using flags or electronic boards to signal important information about the track ahead. Whether it’s a waved yellow to warn of a hazard, a blue to instruct slower cars to give way, or a red flag to stop the session, marshals are trained to react quickly in every situation.
Beyond signaling, marshals are always ready to leap into action if there has been an incident on the circuit. If a car stops due to a mechanical issue or has been involved in a collision, they are the first to respond. Equipped with fire extinguishers and specialized equipment, they attend to any potential danger and assist with recovery operations swiftly and efficiently to ensure the high-speed action resumes as quickly as possible. From sweeping debris and repairing barriers to communicating with Race Control, marshals play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and seamless operation of motorsport events.
“Marshals are the heart and soul of motorsport — we couldn’t have races without them,” says Silvia Bellot, VP of Sporting and Race Operations at Las Vegas Grand Prix, Inc. “They play a crucial role in ensuring the track is safe, communicating with drivers through flag signals, and acting as the eyes and ears of Race Control. Whether it’s recovering cars after an incident or managing a mechanical issue, they are essential to the smooth running of any race.”
Recognizing the importance of these roles, the Las Vegas Grand Prix organizers held a USRM marshal training program this year, opening opportunities for local motorsport fans to get involved. The response was overwhelming, with more than 3,000 applications, including 800 from residents of Southern Nevada, highlighting the community’s passion for Formula 1.
The USRM training program, held at Grand Prix Plaza, instructed qualified participants on every aspect of a marshal’s duties. They received instruction on everything from interpreting different flags to fire safety and vehicle recovery, covering the entire range of duties essential for ensuring the smooth operation of a race. Trainees also received guidance on the electrification of modern F1® cars, which requires the use of rubber gloves in case of faults with a car’s hybrid systems.
The Las Vegas Grand Prix Marshal Program offers an exciting opportunity for motorsport enthusiasts to gain first-hand experience while contributing to the safety and success of one of the world’s biggest racing events. Formula 1 races owe their success to the race marshals who work tirelessly behind the scenes, ensuring the spectacle runs seamlessly.
