F1 fans expected the usual razzle-dazzle at the Las Vegas GP, and boy, did they get it. The race weekend wasn’t just about roaring engines and flashing lights; it was a star-studded affair with Hollywood and sports icons mingling with the action. While Max Verstappen dominated on the track, clinching his fourth World Championship, the real buzz seemed to drift toward the famous faces in the paddock. Among them, Sylvester Stallone’s surprise appearance turned heads and stole the limelight.

Adding to the spectacle, Brooklyn 99’s Terry Crews brought his signature charisma to the post-race interviews, delighting fans. But the highlight? None other than Stallone waved the chequered flag as George Russell and Lewis Hamilton crossed the finish line, securing a glorious Mercedes 1-2. Stallone, who became a global icon through his iconic role as Rocky, owned the moment, leaving fans in awe.

Meanwhile, Stallone had a nostalgic reunion with Martin Brundle, taking fans on a trip down memory lane. “I was gonna race tonight, but I got a bad ankle,” Stallone quipped, much to Brundle’s amusement. The two reminisced about their first meeting on the grid back in 1999 at the Hungarian GP. Brundle recalled, “25 years ago, in Hungary. Time flies, doesn’t it?”

Some fans may remember Stallone’s venture into the world of F1 back in 2001 with the movie Driven. The actor who once played Rocky Balboa took on the role of Joe “The Hummer” Tant, a veteran racer and IndyCar champion who mentors the driver Jimmy Bly. As part of the work that went into the movie, Stallone appeared at the Hungarian GP in 1999. The person interviewing him was none other than Martin Brundle.

At the time, Sylvester Stallone shared insights into the film, where the filmmakers planned to film the stunts and so on. More importantly, Stallone emphasized his love for the sport and the 1999 F1 season. The 1999 season became famous because of McLaren driver Mika Hakkinen, who went up against the Ferrari of Michael Schumacher and picked up the title, establishing himself as one of the greatest drivers to grace the sport.

Cut to 2024, Stallone found himself on the mic once again with Martin Brundle. When asked if he was cheering for anyone in particular, Stallone’s reply struck a chord. “Oh my god, you know, I’m conflicted. Love champions, but I’m in love with underdogs. That’s my thing,” he shared. It was classic Stallone—heartfelt, relatable, and brimming with charm. While his hopes for an underdog win didn’t materialize, his presence certainly became a highlight for fans soaking in the glitz of Las Vegas.

Fans could not believe it as they showed their support on the X post.

Fans left in awe after Stallone’s Vegas surprise

Sylvester Stallone, the legendary 78-year-old actor, recently showcased his artistic flair by selling his original artwork for a whopping $410,000 at a charity auction. But his creative side wasn’t the only thing grabbing attention. At the Las Vegas GP, fans couldn’t contain their excitement upon spotting him. “Omggg Sylvester Stallone, hi!!!!” one fan wrote, while another exclaimed, “SYLVESTER STALLONE???? AT THE VEGAS GP???? RRRRAAAHHH.” 

But that was just the beginning. The buzz skyrocketed when it was revealed Stallone would wave the chequered flag to close the race. Fans exploded with enthusiasm online. “Sylvester Stallone waving the flag? HECK YEAHHHHHHHHH,” one user commented. His big moment at the finish line added a Hollywood twist to the high-speed action. It’s not uncommon to see celebrities waving the checkered flag. Stallone became a part of a very lucky group of people who had the opportunity to do so.

Another fan appreciated Sylvester Stallone for taking a moment to talk to Martin Brundle on the grid. The fan commented, “Just shows you how to be a class act, unlike some of the muppets you see on the grid who refuse to speak!” The fan referred to a little while on the track when Brundle couldn’t find celebrities before finding them. And it wasn’t just Stallone basking in the Vegas GP spotlight. Stars like Ludacris, Paul Mescal, Mark Wahlberg, and John Legend joined the glittering celebration. On Friday, Adele, Rory McIlroy, and Olympic gold medalist Noah Lyles were also seen soaking in the Sin City atmosphere, making it a truly star-studded weekend.

Another fan jested about Stallone’s support of Schumacher’s Ferrari with a cheeky comment. The fan said, “Brundle: “Who are you supporting today?” Stallone: “Michael Schumacher. I think he’ll win today.” This refers to the 1999 Hungarian GP when Sylvester Stallone appeared wearing the iconic Marlboro Ferrari cap in support of Michael Schumacher. Although Hakkinen won the race at the time, this fan believes Stallone continues his support of the 7-time World Champion to this day.