The upcoming F1 Business Summit in Las Vegas has announced a notable addition to its speaker lineup with Haas Team Principal Ayao Komatsu joining the event. Scheduled for November 19, 2026, the summit will take place at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace, just two days before the 2026 Las Vegas Grand Prix.
Alongside Komatsu, the summit will feature a diverse group of speakers including renowned chef Gordon Ramsay and former NFL quarterback Russell Wilson. Komatsu is set to participate in an on-stage question and answer session focusing on leadership, innovation, and resilience, particularly in the context of managing a smaller Formula 1® team competing against larger, more established rivals.
The event aims to bring together figures from various industries connected to Formula 1®, with sessions covering topics such as fan engagement, fashion, hospitality, and circuit promotion. Other highlights include a keynote panel featuring athletes like Russell Wilson, Shaun White, and Ndamukong Suh discussing their transitions into ownership and investment roles after their sports careers. The summit will be hosted by Heather McMahan, with opening remarks from Formula 1® President Stefano Domenicali and closing comments by Liberty Media President Derek Chang.
The timing of the summit, just before the Las Vegas Grand Prix, positions it as a key gathering for industry professionals and enthusiasts interested in the business side of the sport. Komatsu’s participation highlights the increasing recognition of leadership challenges faced by smaller teams within the highly competitive environment of Formula 1®.
Gordon Ramsay’s involvement will explore his partnership with Formula 1® and the race weekend hospitality business, offering insights into how the sport intersects with lifestyle and entertainment sectors. Meanwhile, the athlete panel will provide perspectives on career transitions and investment opportunities beyond active competition.
The 2026 Las Vegas Grand Prix itself is scheduled for November 21, featuring 50 laps on the 6.2-kilometre Las Vegas Strip Circuit. Tickets for the summit start at $550, with VIP packages also available for those seeking a more exclusive experience.
This edition of the F1 Business Summit continues to emphasize the multifaceted nature of Formula 1®, extending beyond the track to include leadership, innovation, and business development. Ayao Komatsu’s role at the event offers a valuable viewpoint on steering a smaller team through the complexities of the sport’s evolving landscape.