- The ex-England captain, 48, was joined by Shaquille O’Neal on the red carpet
- The co-owner of Inter Miami wants Las Vegas to also host a World Cup match in 2026
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David Beckham has praised the organizers of the first-ever Grand Prix in Las Vegas for doing a “great job” before Max Verstappen cruised to victory again in Sin City, despite Formula 1 being denounced by fans after Thursday’s practice disaster.
The 48-year-old ex-England captain said of Sunday night’s late night pre-race red carpet event, hosted by Sports Illustrated ‘Club SI’: “I think it’s a great opportunity for Vegas to show where it’s all about. We already know what Vegas is about…
“But of course, to host a big, one of the biggest sporting events in the world… here in Las Vegas… I think it’s exciting. And you know, a night race is always special, and I think so far, from what I’ve seen, they’ve done a great job.
“We hope that the drivers and the teams are satisfied, that is the most important thing.”
The former LA Galaxy, Real Madrid and Manchester United player was joined by a host of A-list names including Shaquille O’Neal, Usain Bolt and Gordon Ramsey for this weekend’s big event in Las Vegas.
LOOKING SHARP: David Beckham attended the beautiful pre-race red carpet event in Las Vegas on Sunday
Beckham said the F1 race in Sin City was a great way to showcase what Las Vegas is all about
“I always get excited about these events,” Beckham said. ‘And I’m a big fan of F1.’
The Premier League Hall of Famer was also asked for his thoughts on the World Cup that could come to Las Vegas in less than three years, even though the city is not technically on FIFA’s list to host matches.
“To be honest, I’m personally excited because the last World Cup was such a great success,” Beckham said. “I’m obviously excited about the World Cup year, but I think it’s a different time, especially after owning an MLS team.
‘The run-up to this World Cup [in America, Canada and Mexico] I think it’s going to be very exciting and it’s going to be presented the way it needs to be presented. So personally I am enthusiastic.
“Obviously Las Vegas may host one of the games, who knows… But if that happens, I think it’s going to be spectacular.”
Beckham is also excited about Lionel Messi possibly winning the SI Sportsman of the Year Award
The Inter Miami co-owner also shared his thoughts on the team’s star player, Lionel Messi, who was nominated for the SI Sportsman of the Year Award, won by the likes of LeBron James (2012, 2016), Tom Brady ( 2021, 2005) and Michael Phelps (2008) in the past.
‘I will always nominate him for any award. But of course it’s very special to have him in our team, to have him in MLS and America,” Beckham said. “Not just for Miami fans, but for all of America, we’re talking about Miami and MLS and they’re talking about the game.
“So that’s the most important thing and Leo has been a revelation since the moment he landed in Miami. And I think next season will be even more special.’