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F1 Partners With Las Vegas Casino That Sued It

Twelve months after a Las Vegas casino off the Strip sued F1 for losses in revenue amounting to millions, it has formed a partnership with the racing organization. Ellis Island has been designated as an official site for the 2025 Las Vegas Grand Prix. 

“As we enter into this partnership with our neighbors on Koval Lane, we look forward to working with Las Vegas Grand Prix to extend our offerings at Ellis Island during race weekend and beyond,” said Gary Ellis, the property’s owner, in a statement.

What a Change a Year Brings 

Ellis Island had a viewing area for the first 2023 Las Vegas Grand Prix, but later filed a lawsuit against the race. Requesting over $50K in damages, it asserted that the race — along with the traffic disruption due to the six months of preparation and dismantling before and after — significantly limited customer access, resulting in millions in financial losses. 

In September of last year, Judge Joanna Kishner determined that the suit did not provide adequate evidence and that Nevada law generally does not offer compensation to businesses for short-term interruptions in public access. The case was dismissed on May 9 as per the parties' agreement. 

The updated agreement makes Ellis Island a vital player, featuring fan zones, events, and community engagements, such as the Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation of Nevada’s Halloween Bash at Grand Prix Plaza. 

“We are thrilled to be growing our partnership with Ellis Island,” Emily Prazer, president and CEO of the Las Vegas Grand Prix, said in a statement. “Over the last two years, we have committed to working with the community and local businesses to ensure they are part of the race week excitement. Ellis Island is not only a great partner for us but also offers fans another exciting viewing locations along the circuit.”

Additional Lawsuits Currently in Progress 

Battista’s Hole in the Wall, Ferraro’s Ristorante, and the Stage Door Casino have ongoing lawsuits against F1. By March 2025, Prazer mentioned that reaching a settlement with the companies was “not out of the question,” and Clark County Commissioner Jim Gibson directed staff to investigate settlement possibilities. 

No decision has been finalized. 

Information regarding the spectator area at Ellis Island and hotel deals for the race weekend from November 20-22 is still pending.