Table of Contents
- 1 IS IT LEGAL TO SMOKING MARIJUANA IN LAS VEGAS?
- 2 YOU MAY BE INTERESTED
- 3 **Given the concerns raised by drivers about the potential impact of marijuana odor on performance, should there be standardized air quality guidelines implemented for Formula 1 races and other major sporting events held in locations with legalized cannabis?**
Published November 22, 2024
Checo and Colapinto were the first to point out the problem | Reuters
The Las Vegas Grand Prix has brought a new complaint from Formula 1 drivers. In addition to the dirty track and the low temperature, the protagonists of the Great Circus have raised complaints about the “strong smell of marijuana” in the ‘Sin City’ circuit. TAfter free practice on Friday night, Franco Colapinto and Sergio Pérez spoke about it. The Argentine joked about the situation, while the Mexican assured that “he was tired.”
In an interview with the media, when asked about the improvement in track grip, the Red Bull chose to pose a new problem at the Las Vegas GP. “What is very noticeable around the entire circuit is the smell of marijuana. Throughout the night, I am already a little tired, the amount is incredible, it is something that all the pilots are going to talk about.” Pérez stated that all his colleagues are going to complain all weekend if something is not done about it.
Colapinto, for his part, made a similar comment, in a joking tone: “Yes, there was a smell of stupid ‘joint’, if they do doping on the pilots, all positive. If we mark everything positive, quilombo“explained the Williams driver. The United States already had a similar problem a few months ago. At the US Open several of the tennis players made similar comments about the smell on the courts of the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center.
IS IT LEGAL TO SMOKING MARIJUANA IN LAS VEGAS?
In 2017, the Nevada state government approved recreational marijuana use. Adults 21 years old can possess up to one ounce of cannabis, and grow up to six plants if they live more than 25 miles from a dispensary. In the past decade, 24 states in the United States legalized recreational marijuana use. In South Carolina and South Dakota it is considered a misdemeanor, while in Wisonsin, Alabama, Indiana, Tennessee, Idaho, Kentucky, Wyoming, West Virginia, Utah, Kansas, Iowa, Arkansas, North Carolina, Mississippi, Louisiana, North Dakota, New Hampshire, Hawaii, Georgia, Pennsylvania, Nebraska y Texas It remains illegal, with different sanctions.
YOU MAY BE INTERESTED
**Given the concerns raised by drivers about the potential impact of marijuana odor on performance, should there be standardized air quality guidelines implemented for Formula 1 races and other major sporting events held in locations with legalized cannabis?**
## World Today News Exclusive Interview:
**The “Potent” Problem at the Las Vegas Grand Prix**
**Host:** Welcome back to World Today News. We have a fascinating topic to discuss today stemming from the highly anticipated Las Vegas Grand Prix. Joining us are motorsport journalist, **Maria Gonzales**, and former Formula 1 driver, **Robert “Rob” Davidson**. Welcome to the show, both.
**Maria & Rob:** Thanks for having us.
**Host:** Maria, as a motorsport journalist who closely covers the F1 circuit, what were your initial reactions to the drivers’ statements about the strong smell of marijuana at the Las Vegas Grand Prix?
**Maria:** Honestly, it was a bit surreal. While we all anticipate some unique experiences at the first Grand Prix in Las Vegas, this was unexpected. The concerns raised by drivers like Sergio Pérez and Franco Colapinto, particularly Pérez’s statement about feeling “tired” due to the odor, are serious.
**Host:** Rob, from a driver’s perspective, how could this issue potentially impact performance during such a demanding race?
**Rob:** Concentration is everything in Formula 1. Even subtle distractions can throw off a driver’s focus, especially under pressure.
A strong, pervasive odor, regardless of its source, could be a real nuisance, affecting reaction time and ultimately potentially jeopardizing safety.
**Host:** The article mentions that Nevada legalized recreational marijuana in 2017. Maria, do you think this legal status contributes to the scenario at the Las Vegas Grand Prix?
**Maria:** It certainly plays a role. The legal nature makes it more accessible, and perhaps, there’s less social stigma attached to its use, even in public spaces. It emphasizes the responsibility of authorities and organizers to ensure a suitable environment for athletes and spectators alike.
**Host:** Rob, thinking back to your racing days, were marijuana-related issues ever a concern at other Grand Prix locations?
**Rob:**
Not to this extent. While I wouldn’t say it’s been unheard of, the context of Las Vegas being known for its indulgence, combined with its legalization, might be amplifying the issue.
**Host:** A parallel is drawn in the article to the US Open, where tennis players raised concerns about the smell of marijuana. Maria, do you think this indicates a larger trend of cannabis odor affecting sporting events held in areas where it’s legal?
**Maria:** It’s certainly a question to ponder. This incident and the US Open situation highlight the need for open dialogues between organizers, athletes, and local communities about striking a balance between individual freedoms and ensuring a professional sporting environment.
**Host:** Agreeing, Rob, what steps would you suggest the F1 organizers and local authorities take to address this issue in Las Vegas?
**Rob:** Firstly, communicating with drivers and stakeholders is crucial. Let’s understand the extent and severity of the problem. Secondly, exploring perimeter control measures or air filtration
systems around the circuit could be considered, ensuring a breathable environment for everyone involved.
**Host:** Thank you both for sharing your insightful perspectives. We’ll be following this situation closely as the Grand Prix unfolds. This is a unique situation with complex implications, and a commendable reminder that the dynamics between sporting events and their host environments deserve careful consideration. Back to you,
