FIA prohibits three essential colors on Sphere during the track action in Las Vegas.

Although the Las Vegas Sphere is expected to be a highlight of the race, drivers may find it distracting.

During the first-ever Formula One Las Vegas Grand Prix, the FIA has prohibited the Sphere from using three primary colors on the track.

The world’s largest LED screen, The Sphere, finally opened to the public in early October and, once lit at night, transformed into a city beacon.

1.2 million pucks, spaced eight inches apart, make up the fully programmable exosphere. Each puck is made up of 48 separate LED diodes, each of which can display 256 million different colors.

It will be used to showcase branding from several race-related partners during the weekend, in addition to displaying driver cards of all 20 drivers and their vehicles.

Speedcafe has learned, however, that whilst practice, qualifying, and the race are underway, the FIA has determined that in the interests of safety and given the potential distraction, the colours red, yellow, and blue will not be used as these are shown on the trackside light panels which warn the drivers of various situations.

Sited at the heart of the Turns 6-9 complex on the 6.201-kilometre track,  the Sphere’s considerable brightness cannot be adjusted, and so may yet prove disturbing for the drivers despite the fact they will be wearing darkened visors.

The Sphere, however, will still be a main draw for fans at the event, and those at home watching television, adding to the Las Vegas spectacle, alongside the cars hitting 210mph as they hurtle down the iconic Strip.

“This is one of the world’s premier sporting events, and we are ready to showcase Sphere to our global audience via F1 – both in person in Las Vegas and watching around the world – demonstrating the unparalleled technological and creative capabilities of the Exosphere,” said Joel Fisher, executive vice president marquee events and operations for MSG Entertainment.

“Sphere’s exosphere doesn’t just complement the Las Vegas circuit, it elevates it to new heights, turning every lap into a mesmerizing experience for fans in attendance and watching on TV globally,” said Emily Prazer, chief commercial officer of the Las Vegas Grand Prix.

Imagine exciting podium celebrations, real-time pole positions, and a dynamic display of all 20 drivers and their legendary cars on larger-than-life displays. Being the focal point of race weekend excites us.