Formula 1 announces pre-race show F1 Grid Gigs for this weekend’s US GP, as Nicholas Latifi announces he has completed his MBA degree.

The excitement of Formula 1 will begin before lights out with a brand-new pre-race show, F1 Grid Gigs presented by American Express, with the first to take place at the FORMULA 1 MSC CRUISES UNITED STATES GRAND PRIX 2025.

A unique blend of music and motorsport, the new feature was inspired by the celebrated F1 75 Live season opener at the O2, watched by an incredible 7.5 million viewers across Formula 1’s social channels. Partnering with world renowned and locally relevant artists around the globe, F1 Grid Gigs presented by American Express will elevate the pre-race entertainment spectacle for fans in the stands and at home as we countdown to the cars heading out on track.

With Austin, widely regarded as the live music capital of the world, the inaugural show will embrace Texas’ rich music heritage by giving the stage to Texas-born country singer and songwriter, Drake Milligan.

Known for his chart-topping album Dallas/Fort Worth and hit songs “Sounds Like Something I’d Do,” “Honky Tonkin’ About” with The Reklaws, and “I Got a Problem,” Drake’s distinct traditional country sound blended with his own unique modern flare, makes him one of the rising stars of country music. In Austin, Drake’s performance will mark the start of the race preparations, taking to the grid to entertain fans in the stands and at home, just before the drivers leave their garages to head out onto track.

F1 Grid Gigs presented by American Express will return at the FORMULA 1 HEINEKEN LAS VEGAS GRAND PRIX 2025, with a world class artist performance in the City of Lights before the racing begins at the iconic Las Vegas Strip Circuit.

Emily Prazer, Chief Commercial Officer at Formula 1, said: “There’s nothing like the energy of a Formula 1 grid as the world gets ready for the best drivers to go head-to-head. F1 Grid Gigs presented by American Express will elevate one of the most anticipated moments of a Grand Prix weekend. This new pre-race show has been designed to capture and celebrate the thrill of the grid and give fans in the stands and at home a taste of adrenaline and exhilaration before we go racing.”

Drake Milligan, said: “I’m thrilled to be performing at the Grand Prix in Austin, TX! There’s nothing like the energy of this city during race weekend and I’m looking forward to being a part of it. It’s the perfect stage for live music with the roar of the engines and the passion of the fans! I can’t wait to bring some country heat to the Circuit of The Americas!”

Nicholas Latifi –

It’s been a while since I last posted. I wanted to take some time away to fully focus on my MBA at London Business School and really enjoy the experience free of distractions. I’m happy to share that I graduated a few months ago!

Having not done an undergrad degree, I had no idea what to expect, and will admit I was a little nervous at first. But, I quickly discovered how warm and welcoming the LBS community is and built friendships I know will last a lifetime.

These past two years have been among the most rewarding of my life, filled with learning, growth, new experiences, and memories I will carry with me forever. Excited for what is ahead. More to come soon.

[The story is as per press release]