The 2023 Formula One season is now well underway, but there’s still a long way to go before the battle to be crowned champion finally comes to a head. Interest in the sport has reached all-time highs in recent years, as an improved social media strategy and new initiatives to ensure maximum excitement for fans have paid off. And, with Max Verstappen considered the red hot, odds-on favourite to take this year’s title, the number of fans rushing to sites like Oddschecker to find the best platforms on which to place their bets – many of which offer some excellent free bonuses – is growing by the day.
Whilst the majority of F1 fanatics will continue to follow the tournament from home – either through their television or via a streaming service online – some will choose to enjoy the action from the trackside and attend one or more of the Grands Prix in person. And for luxury lovers, the VIP event packages offer the chance to take in the race from a private box with privileged seating whilst enjoying a host of high-end refreshments, making it the ultimate splurge for enthusiasts of the sport.
The vast majority of the fans hoping to enjoy the thrill of seeing, hearing, and feeling Formula One cars fly past them at eye-watering speeds will attend the event that’s closest to them – and or fans here in the UK, that means a trip to Silverstone in early July.
However, when you consider the unpredictable weather that is part and parcel of a British summer then you might be dreaming of jetting off a bit warmer – and the chance to combine one of the season’s biggest racing events with a much needed luxury getaway.
If that sounds like you, then look no further – because these are the most glamorous stops on the 2023 schedule, and they’re guaranteed to get you feeling inspired to book those tickets.
Monaco
There is no Formula One race quite like the iconic Monaco Grand Prix. The venue and event are unique in just about every way possible, from the size and layout of the track to the lavish post-race celebrations – making this an event that every fan of the sport and lover of luxury should tick off their bucket list at least once.
The Grand Prix in the principality has been on the F1 calendar for the sport’s entire history, with 2020 the only year that the event has ever not taken place since. Even back in the early days, the Monaco race was a cut above the rest – and with its tiny circuit originally spanning just two miles, it has always seemed a law unto its own. To offer some perspective, contemporary circuits are much longer, like the 12.9-mile Nürburgring Nordschleife track.
Monaco has been proving for more than 70 years that size doesn’t always matter in Formula One, and it has retained its place as a permanent fixture on the calendar simply by offering an unrivalled level of glamorous and sophistication that others simply can’t match.
The modern circuit’s famous harbour section is lined with some of the most impressive yachts, turning the Monaco Grand Prix into one of the hottest parties for the world’s rich and famous. A magnet for celebrities, it creates a positive feedback loop for the race around Monte Carlo’s streets, with film stars and musicians often known to be in attendance.
Singapore
The Singapore circuit is a prime example of a more modern street track and first made its first appearance on the calendar back in 2008, when it debuted as Formula One’s first-ever night race. While other events have since copied the format, Singapore retains a special status among many fans, and is another glamorous destination that is beloved of the rich and famous.
While it may not have the impressive history behind it that Monaco does, just like the Mediterranean principality, Singapore attracts plenty of A-list celebrities who all treat the Grand Prix as an opportunity to network with other notable people in film, music, business, and sport – and back in 2018, the event was attended by the cast of the Crazy Rich Asians (2018) movie, as well as many regional celebrities like Angelique Teo.
The glamour and luxury of the Singapore Grand Prix are symbolised by the iconic Marina Bay Sands hotel and casino, which towers over the track and is an instantly recognisable mark on the city’s skyline. The resort’s famous SkyPark offers those wealthy and connected enough to score tickets to the Grand Prix the chance to enjoy incredible views down over the circuit and the city as a whole.
Las Vegas
In 2023, Las Vegas will be returning to the Formula One calendar for the first time since 1982 – a move that has left many long-term fans excited for the chance to enjoy an event in this famous American city.
Back then, the race was known as the Caesars Palace Grand Prix and was regarded as a terrible circuit that was essentially a car park with some temporary crash barriers – not too dissimilar to your local go kart track. However, 2023’s Las Vegas Grand Prix will be entirely different, as instead of being held in a casino’s car park, this year’s race will run along the city’s famous strip, twisting in between some of the most famous resorts on the planet.
Las Vegas is already a place that attracts many of the world’s most affluent and famous people, including film stars, legendary athletes, chart-topping singers, and more. So combining a place like this with a sport like Formula One is bound to create one of the most glamorous events on the F1 calendar.
Not only that, but the sport is investing heavily in this race as part of its quest to grow its presence and popularity in the United States. For that reason, we can expect even more celebrities and social media influencers to be at the circuit this year, by invitation of Formula One itself.
Abu Dhabi
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix was once known for being something of a snooze fest, but following some considerable upgrades to the track, it’s now set to be one of the most exciting events of the season.
Of course, it would be hard to beat the atmosphere at the 2021 title showdown between Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen, which ended with a final-lap sprint to the line – and the emirate can’t promise such nail-biting action every year. But, like the other destinations we’ve highlighted, it can certainly serve up a good dose of sophistication and the utmost in luxury, making it a must for fans of the sport looking to splurge on a lavish experience.
The Yas Marina circuit got its name from the large car park for superyachts that lines the track, just like the one we see in Monaco. You can charter one for the weekend if money is no object, but there are also plenty of wealthy petrolheads who bring their own.
The entire facility has been designed with luxury in mind. In addition to the thrilling on-track action, visitors are treated to breath-taking views and some of the highest-quality facilities on the entire Formula One calendar.
Over the race weekend, you can grab a spot of lunch at restaurants run by famous chefs like Greg Malouf, stop for a drink in one of the many bars, or enjoy a live show from A-list performers.
Please gamble responsibly (18+ UK) – check age restrictions before participating
