LAS VEGAS — This week, Formula 1 drivers expressed their concerns regarding the strong scent of marijuana as they geared up for the upcoming Las Vegas Grand Prix. One driver humorously noted the potential for failing drug tests due to the odor around the venue, highlighting the relaxed marijuana laws in Nevada.

Since the legalization of marijuana in Nevada in 2016, its smell has become commonplace at various public events, especially sporting occasions. Williams driver Franco Colapinto remarked, “Yes, there was a smell of weed. If they do drug testing on us now, I believe everyone will come back positive. And when that happens, it will create quite a situation.” The drivers underwent three practice sessions before stepping into the qualifying rounds leading up to the race scheduled for Saturday night.

Max Verstappen, aiming for his fourth consecutive championship title, also remarked on the noticeable marijuana scent during practice. “I was quite high in the car,” he jested. “It’s less than ideal since you can catch a whiff while driving, and it’s rather intense.” His teammate at Red Bull, Sergio Perez, concurred with Verstappen’s lighthearted take, expressing fatigue with the situation. “I’m over it already,” Perez stated. “The quantity of the smell is overwhelming.”

Despite the legalization, marijuana continues to be prohibited under federal law. In Nevada, it is only available for purchase at state-sanctioned dispensaries, and buyers must be 21 or older. While the scent of marijuana is often present in outdoor areas during sports events, it is unusual for the smell to permeate enclosed venues due to restrictions on indoor smoking.

This was not a concern during the Super Bowl held at Allegiant Stadium in February, which is also the home of the Las Vegas Raiders. Similarly, although the marijuana scent is often detected outside the T-Mobile Arena during events for the Vegas Golden Knights and UFC, it typically doesn’t make its way inside the arena. Notably, Formula 1 drivers did not raise any complaints about the odor during their inaugural race in Las Vegas last year.