Formula 1® set a new benchmark for sporting entertainment last night, delivering Europe’s largest ever drone show above Port Hercule in Monaco while announcing a landmark 10-year extension of the FORMULA 1 LAS VEGAS GRAND PRIX through 2037, as part of the opening celebrations for the FORMULA 1 LOUIS VUITTON GRAND PRIX DE MONACO 2026 this weekend.
Featuring 3,050 drones, the record-breaking aerial display stretched up to 600ft high and 800ft wide, illuminating the riviera skyline in a breathtaking fusion of technology, entertainment, and sport.
Across a 10-minute choreographed performance, the show unfolded as a visual journey through Formula 1’s present and future. Following a dramatic mass take-off, drones recreated visuals of the Monaco cityscape, and its iconic street circuit, followed by the Monaco Grand Prix trophy, where the animation highlighted Formula 1’s extension in the Principality through 2035.
The sequence continued with a brightly coloured 3D helmet and a dynamic showcase of all the Formula 1 teams, before transitioning to the Explora Journeys identity and the news of the evening – a bold Las Vegas visual announcing the extension of the FORMULA 1 LAS VEGAS GRAND PRIX to 2037.
The record-breaking drone show served as the centrepiece of an unforgettable night as the championship’s official opening party was hosted aboard the ultra-elegant EXPLORA I, blending high-octane motorsport with ocean elegance in one of the Mediterranean’s most exclusive ports.
Returning to Monaco for a second consecutive year, Explora Journeys reaffirmed its position at the heart of the Grand Prix weekend, transforming EXPLORA I into one of the most sought-after destinations of the event – an exclusive vantage point combining luxury hospitality, sport, and world-class entertainment.
As dusk settled around the harbour, EXPLORA I welcomed an international VIP guestlist of cultural trendsetters from the worlds of sport, music, fashion, and more, surrounded by picturesque views of the ocean.
Global DJ Bob Sinclar delivered an electrifying headline set, while supermodel and cultural icon Naomi Campbell made a special appearance, taking to the decks for an exclusive performance that carried the celebrations late into the night.
Throughout the Grand Prix weekend, EXPLORA I is the only ship of its kind docked in Port Hercule, giving guests onboard incredible race views, bespoke shore experiences, and a curated programme of exclusive events, seamlessly connecting luxury hospitality with Formula 1’s on-track drama.
Emily Prazer, Chief Commercial Officer of Formula 1 and President and CEO of Las Vegas Grand Prix, Inc. said:
“From the streets of Monte Carlo to the skies above the harbour, Formula 1 continues to deliver a spectacle never seen before in world sport. In one evening alone we paid our respects to the history of the Monaco Grand Prix, delivered Europe’s biggest ever drone show, launched a 10-year extension to the Las Vegas Grand Prix, and entertained global superstars aboard EXPLORA I. I am delighted to see our sport reach new heights, and can’t wait to see all the action unfold this weekend in this iconic destination.”
Anna Nash, President of Explora Journeys, said:
“Maybe the most exciting new address in Monaco this weekend isn’t on land. As one of the newest brands in luxury travel, Explora Journeys is redefining what it means to experience the ocean. Hosting the official opening party of Formula 1 aboard EXPLORA I places our brand, our ships and our vision centre stage during one of the world’s most iconic events and reflects the momentum we are building as we continue to redefine ocean travel.“
About Formula 1®
Formula 1® racing began in 1950 and is the world’s most prestigious motor racing competition, as well as the world’s most popular annual sporting series. Formula One World Championship Limited is part of Formula 1® and holds the exclusive commercial rights to the FIA Formula One World Championship™. Formula 1® is a subsidiary of Liberty Media Corporation (NASDAQ: FWONA, FWONK, LLYVA, LLVYK) attributed to the Formula One Group tracking stock. The F1 logo, F1 FORMULA 1 logo, FORMULA 1, F1, FIA FORMULA ONE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP, GRAND PRIX, PADDOCK CLUB and related marks are trademarks of Formula One Licensing BV, a Formula 1 company. All rights reserved.
About FORMULA 1 HEINEKEN LAS VEGAS GRAND PRIXEstablished in 2023, the FORMULA 1 HEINEKEN LAS VEGAS GRAND PRIX is promoted by Formula 1®, in collaboration with Clark County. The 50-lap race takes place on a 3.8-mile circuit in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip and sees drivers reach jaw-dropping speeds of over 215 mph (346 kph) as they drive past some of the world’s most iconic landmarks, hotels, and casinos. Through the Las Vegas Grand Prix Foundation, Las Vegas Grand Prix, Inc. has donated more than $2 million to non-profit organizations working to strengthen the local community. The 2026 race will take place on November 19-21, 2026. For more information, visit www.f1lasvegasgp.com.
About the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (Visit Las Vegas):The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) is charged with positioning Southern Nevada as the undisputed global destination for leisure and business travel and operates the 4.6 million square-foot Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC). With 150,000 hotel rooms and nearly 15 million square feet of meeting and exhibit space in Las Vegas, the LVCVA’s mission centers on attracting visitors to the area. The LVCVA also owns the Vegas Loop at Las Vegas Convention Center, designed and operated by The Boring Company, and also owns the Las Vegas Monorail, an elevated 3.9-mile system with seven stops throughout the resort corridor. For more information, go to www.lvcva.com, www.visitlasvegas.com or www.vegasmeansbusiness.com.