Women Driving Change: Las Vegas Grand Prix Celebrates Women in Motorsport
Meet the women leading the charge at Las Vegas Grand Prix
This March, as we celebrate Women’s History Month, Las Vegas Grand Prix is proud to spotlight the remarkable contributions of our team members who are shaping the future of motorsport at the Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix. With a gifted and experienced female leadership team at the helm of the organization, Las Vegas Grand Prix is redefining what’s possible in motorsport — driving change, challenging perceptions and paving the way for the next generation of talent.
At the forefront of this evolution is Emily Prazer, President & CEO of Las Vegas Grand Prix, Inc. and Chief Commercial Officer of Formula 1. A trailblazer in sports and entertainment, Prazer has been instrumental in bringing Formula 1® to the heart of Las Vegas, setting a new benchmark for race organization, fan experience and commercial success. In her dual leadership role, she works to maximize the synergies between Formula 1 and the Las Vegas Grand Prix, ensuring the sport’s continued growth in the U.S. while reinforcing its commitment to local community engagement.
Alongside her, Silvia Bellot, Vice President of Sporting and Race Operations, ensures the seamless execution of all on-track and sporting-related activities in Las Vegas. A trailblazer in motorsport, Bellot made history as the first female FIA steward in Formula 1. With over a decade in motorsport marshalling and race operations, she exemplifies the leadership and expertise women bring to the highest levels of race management. Bellot also plays a pivotal role in the development of female talent, serving as the Race Director for F1 ACADEMY™, the all-female racing series.
Established in 2023, F1 ACADEMY™ is committed to supporting young female racers by helping them build the skills needed to progress to higher tiers of racing on the path to Formula 1. This year, the F1 ACADEMY season finale will take place at the FORMULA 1 HEINEKEN LAS VEGAS GRAND PRIX 2025, a milestone moment that underscores the sport’s growing commitment to inclusivity and opportunity.
The female leadership team at the Las Vegas Grand Prix is a powerful reminder of the importance of representation, opportunity and breaking barriers in a sport often perceived as male dominated. Lauren Flint, Vice President of Event Operations, plays a key role in ensuring the annual race is safe, efficient and successful. A Las Vegas native, Flint oversees a wide range of operational aspects, using her extensive experience in the events industry to help deliver the city’s largest annual sporting and entertainment event.
The race weekend’s impact extends beyond the track, with leaders like Samantha Rayburn, Vice President of Experiential Operations. A fourth-generation Nevadan, Rayburn draws on her decade of experience in hospitality and partnerships to craft unforgettable experiences for fans, partners and guests. Her role includes overseeing food and beverage offerings and premium hospitality, ensuring that every aspect of the event delivers a world-class experience.
Lori Nelson-Kraft, Senior Vice President of Corporate Affairs, is another key figure in shaping the event’s influence beyond the track and within the local community. With a background in corporate communications, government affairs and community engagement, she plays a pivotal role in strengthening the event’s ties to Las Vegas and its local community. Before joining Las Vegas Grand Prix, Inc., Nelson-Kraft served in senior-level corporate communications roles for Station Casinos and the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA), further cementing her deep-rooted connection to Southern Nevada.
Alli England, Vice President of Premium Sales & Service, ensures every guest at the Las Vegas Grand Prix receives a first-class experience. From overseeing VIP hospitality to developing ticketing strategies, she is committed to making the event as seamless as it is spectacular. She works closely with Sandy San Nicolas, Vice President of Ticket Operations, who brings over 30 years of experience in entertainment and ticketing to the event. Having worked at Allegiant Stadium and Park MGM’s Park Theater (now Dolby Live), San Nicolas expertly manages ticketing logistics, ensuring a smooth experience for fans, VIPs and partners alike.
At the heart of the Las Vegas Grand Prix operation is Kristina Crunk, whose attention to detail keeps everything running smoothly behind the scenes. As Chief of Staff, Crunk acts as a trusted advisor, streamlining processes, implementing strategic initiatives and coordinating efforts across departments. Her ability to bring structure, efficiency and collaboration to a large-scale event makes her an essential part of the organization’s daily operations.
With women leading at every level — from the boardroom to the racetrack — the FORMULA 1 HEINEKEN LAS VEGAS GRAND PRIX is a powerful example of motorsport’s evolution. This March, we celebrate the progress made and the women driving change, ensuring that motorsport continues to embrace diversity and ambition. The Las Vegas Grand Prix is more than just an annual Formula 1 race; it is a movement that proves success in motorsport is open to all.
