FORMULA ONE star Sergio Perez has complained of a “very noticeable” SMELL in Las Vegas ahead of the Grand Prix.
The Red Bull driver is in Sin City ahead of the Vegas GP on Sunday.
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Perez revealed that all F1 drivers will talk about the strong scent of WEED in the Nevada desert.
Speaking after his second free practice session, Perez said: “What is very noticeable around the circuit is the smell of marijuana throughout the night.
“I’m a bit tired of it already — the amount is incredible. It’s something all the drivers will definitely talk about.”
Unlike the UK, cannabis is legal for both medical and recreational use in the state of Nevada.
Fans attending the race are banned from bringing drugs to the 3.8-mile circuit, but it seems that’s not been enough to clear the air.
Fellow driver Franco Colapinto took note of the scent as well.
The Williams ace joked: Yes, there was a smell of weed.
“If they dope the drivers now, I think we’ll all test positive, I swear – when we all test positive, there will be a mess.”
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As expected, cannabis is a prohibited substance for F1 drivers as part of the FIA Anti-Doping Regulations from the sport’s governing body.
While fans attending the Grand Prix will be following suit, Jade – a cannabis dispensary – is situated a few miles from the racetrack.
The shop even specifically markets itself to F1, with a statement on their website reading: “For the Las Vegas Formula 1 event attendees, the experience can be elevated with cannabis.”
Rival chains last year also capitalised on F1‘s arrival by offering discounted weed to locals affected by road closures and heavy noise.
On track, Mercedes star Lewis Hamilton seemed to be unperturbed by Vegas’ scent as he topped both Friday’s practice sessions.
The Vegas GP debuted last year, with Max Verstappen winning the inaugural race.
Reigning three-time champ Verstappen can wrap up a fourth successive title with another victory on a track he won last year.
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