Formula One executives have threatened “to block views of the posh car race unless they fork over millions of dollars in fees,” according to a New York Post report.
The Post obtained a letter stating that the league is demanding that Las Vegas venues “pay $1,500 per head for licensing rights.”
The stipulation would qualify for all venues along the 3.8-mile circuit that will run through central Las Vegas. Billionaire John Malone’s Liberty Media Formula One sales reps have issued a warning, stating that if clubs and restaurants do not pay, "obstructions like barricades, stands and light stanchions could end up ruining the race for their customers,” one source told the Post.
For restaurant and club owners, the hefty fees could add up to millions, depending on their seating capacity.
One frustrated casino owner shared with the Post, “They are literally shaking people down and saying they will obstruct views unless they pay them.
“It seems insane that they are asking money for a public event that is taking place in the streets.”
Another source claimed that the salespeople of Las Vegas Grand Prix CEO and Liberty Media’s Chief Legal Officer, Renee Wilm, have “threatened that lights will be shined toward the viewing areas of unlicensed venues, blinding guests trying to get a peek at the evening race.”
A source told the New York Post, “There is a real chance of obstructing views with stands and barricades. I know the hotels are upset about it and they are trying to figure out if they’ll play along.”
The Formula One Heineken Silver Las Vegas Grand Prix will take place on the Vegas Strip from November 16 to November 18.
