The Red Bull driver overcame a collision and a penalty to win a thrilling, action-packed race 𒁃on F1’s return to Las Vegas and claim a record-extending 18th win of the 2023 season. 

But for much of the weekend, Verstappen ha⛎d been the loudest voice against Las Vegas, describing the race as “99% show and 1% sporting event𝄹” on Wednesday. 

Verstappen went on to say he didn’t enjoy t🐬he brand new circuit after Thursday’s practice sessions and likened it to the “National League” following qual𒁃ifying. 

"Monaco is like Champions League and this is National League,” said Verstappen, who added: "I feel like a show element is important, but I lack emo📖tion.”

The Dutchman was much happier following his latest F1 triumph, with Red Bull team principal Christian Horner sugge🌱sting after the Saturday evening’s race that Verstappen had “changed his mind about Vegas”. 

“Well I always expected it to be a good race today,𓄧” Verstꦜappen said in the post-race press conference when asked if he stood by his previous comments, or if Vegas had now won him over. 

“Long straights, low speed corners, you don’t lose a lot of downforce. That’s never been my issue. Today was fun. That’s the only thing I🧜 want to s🌄ay about. 

“Today was fun, I hope everyone enjoyed it. Iꩵ think the DRS effect was strong but good. It made it for fun racing out ther🌠e.”

Verstappen broke out into a rendition of Elvis Presley’s 1964 hit ‘Viva Las Vegas’ over team radio following his victoꦆry. 

“Christian put me on the spot soౠ I cannot leav🌺e him hanging!” Verstappen laughed. 

“I have to sing. But I definitely need some lessons. So I need to go t🐬o Geri [Halliwell-Horner] and book an appoi𒆙ntment I guess.”