Training canceled in Las Vegas
Dangerous breakdown slows down Formula 1 after 19 minutes
November 17, 2023, 6:49 a.m
The US Grand Prix in Las Vegas is the prestigious project of the Formula 1 bosses. But the race weekend in the gambling metropolis begins with an embarrassing breakdown: the track in this condition is not suitable for Formula 1.
The opening training session for Formula 1 in Las Vegas was canceled after just 19 minutes. The race stewards announced on Thursday evening at 8:49 p.m. (local time) that the session would not be resumed. Carlos Sainz stopped his Ferrari just eight minutes after the start of the first session on the world-famous Las Vegas Boulevard after his car apparently jumped over an obstacle and was shaken.
According to the world motorsport association FIA, during a subsequent inspection on the so-called strip, it was discovered that the concrete frame around a manhole cover had failed. It was said that “all other manhole covers” now have to be checked, which will take some time. You have to consult with the organizer and then adjust the schedule accordingly.
After the Spaniard Sainz’s involuntary stop, the red flag was waved and his car was then towed away. The chassis of Esteban Ocon’s Alpine had to be changed due to damage, which was probably also caused by a manhole cover.
This is an unfortunate sporting start for Formula 1 in the gambling metropolis. The Grand Prix in Las Vegas is the prestige project of the rights holder Liberty Media, with which they want to continue to grow in the US market. Normally the opening training lasts an hour. The second training session is scheduled for Friday (9 a.m. CET). The penultimate race of the season is scheduled for Sunday (7 a.m. CET/Sky and in the live ticker on ntv.de).