Roadgrip Motorsports have returned to the neon streets of Las Vegas to prepare the circuit for the Formula 1 Grand Prix. The city’s unique combination of glamour and grit creates an unforgettable backdrop for the race, and our team played a critical role in transforming its streets into a world-class racing circuit.
Preparing a part-street circuit like Las Vegas is no small feat. Unlike permanent race tracks, street circuits must balance the needs of everyday traffic with those of motorsport. Cold track striping is the first phase in this transformation.
With the barriers installed weeks before the race, existing road markings must be adjusted to reflect the altered flow of traffic. This includes realigning road markings, crosswalks, and directional indicators to keep traffic moving safely and efficiently.
We used high-friction, FIA-homologated paint to ensure these temporary markings met the grip standards required for both conventional vehicles and Formula 1 cars. This specialised paint is designed to withstand wet weather and meet stringent grip readings essential for high-speed racing. The process takes about a month and ensures the streets are ready for race prep without disrupting the city’s daily rhythm.
As the event approaches, the focus shifts to hot track striping—where the streets fully transform into a racing circuit. Over two to three weeks, our team meticulously installed the final race markings, including sporting lines, edge lines, pit lane, and the iconic starting grid.
The FIA homologated paint used for these markings must remain sharp, clean, and durable throughout the high-octane weekend. During this period, Las Vegas comes alive with pre-race buzz, and our team worked tirelessly to refresh and maintain the track’s pristine condition amidst the hustle and bustle of event logistics.
To achieve the perfect racing surface, we collaborated with Skidrbrader, a leader in asphalt cleaning technology. Their Cyclone system, equipped with 4,000 psi water blasting and vacuum recovery, removed debris, oils, and other contaminants from the asphalt.
This partnership ensured that every inch of the circuit met the FIA’s stringent safety and performance standards. Working within tight timeframes and road closures, we coordinated seamlessly to deliver a surface fit for the race event.
Once the race began, our responsibilities shifted to maintenance. Our task force was strategically stationed around the circuit, ready to clean or repair markings as needed between sessions. Whether it was scuffs to the markings during practice or addressing track conditions after an incident, our team was on call to ensure markings stayed fresh.
If you have a temporary or permanent racing circuit that needs to stand out and stay safe, contact our global motorsports team or see our latest projects for inspiration.
