Published on: October 29, 2025, 12:57h. 

Updated on: October 29, 2025, 01:12h.

The Walt Disney Company is set to make a significant branded entry into Las Vegas next month during the F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix. In collaboration with Formula 1, Disney will unveil “Fuel the Magic,” a multi-day entertainment spectacle that integrates beloved Disney characters, live performances, and exclusive merchandise.

Throughout race week, Disney’s iconic characters—Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Daisy Duck, Goofy, and Pluto—will be featured in various events. The grand finale on November 22 will feature the Disneyland Band performing the national anthem, followed by a Disney Live Entertainment show starring “Maestro Mickey” in front of the Fountains of Bellagio.

Moreover, select ticket holders in the grandstand will have the unique opportunity to participate in a pit-lane walk alongside the characters prior to the qualifying session.

“Fans can now look forward to engaging with Mickey & Friends in the exhilarating world of Formula 1 through unique experiences, content, and merchandise around the world,” stated Disney in a press release on Wednesday, which coincided with a vibrant Instagram video showing F1 cars creating an image of Mickey Mouse using skid marks.

The “Fuel the Magic” initiative will include two exclusive race-viewing packages in the East Harmon Zone at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas. Prices start at $2,250 and encompass three-day tickets with assigned seating, pit-lane access, and prime views of the Heineken Silver Stage.

A Significant Change in Direction

Despite ongoing rumors about Disney launching a resort on the Strip, the company has remained relatively reserved in its engagement with Las Vegas, primarily operating through its annual “Disney on Ice” events at the Thomas & Mack Center and an immersive Disney animation exhibit that was displayed at The Shops at Crystals from 2023 to March of this year.

Disney CEO Bob Iger remarked on CNBC in February 2019, “I don’t foresee the Walt Disney Company getting involved in the gambling industry or facilitating gambling in any capacity.”

Historically, Disney has:

• Prohibited casinos on its popular cruise ships, standing apart from industry trends.
• Declined to renew licensing agreements for “Star Wars” slot machines after acquiring Lucasfilm in 2012, and similarly refrained from renewing agreements for Marvel-themed slots post-acquisition in 2009.
• Advocated against the expansion of gambling near Walt Disney World.
• Contributed to halting 21st Century Fox’s plan to establish a theme park at the Resorts World Genting casino resort in Malaysia in 2019.

However, companies aiming for enduring success adapt to changing landscapes. For Disney, this shift commenced in 2023 when its ESPN subsidiary introduced ESPN BET, marking its initial venture into sports betting.

Now, it seems that Disney’s previous stance on avoiding Las Vegas is evolving.