Las Vegas Grand Prix: Practice Disruptions and Fixes

Why this matters: These issues highlight the challenges of racing on street circuits and the importance of thorough safety checks. The disruptions impacted teams' preparation for qualifying and the race.

The Las Vegas Grand Prix experienced significant disruptions during its practice sessions. A loose manhole cover on the Turn 17 caused two red flags in FP2, leading to early termination of the session. The FIA responded by disassembling and inspecting the cover, identifying a fault in the closure mechanism. To prevent recurrence, the cover was welded shut, and additional welding was applied to 14 other manhole assemblies around the circuit.

During FP3, George Russell set the fastest time for Mercedes in mixed conditions. The session saw tricky conditions, with Oscar Piastri initially using intermediate tires on the damp track. As the track dried, drivers switched to slick tires, with Russell ultimately leading the way. Both McLarens struggled, finishing at the bottom of the timesheets.

This is not the first time the Las Vegas GP has faced such issues. In 2023, a water valve cover came loose, damaging Carlos Sainz's Ferrari and leading to the cancellation of the first practice session. Similar incidents have occurred at other street circuits like Baku, underscoring the need for careful track inspection and maintenance.

A loose manhole cover on the track caused red flags and early termination of the second practice session.

The FIA welded the problematic manhole cover shut and inspected other covers around the circuit, applying additional welding where necessary.

George Russell set the fastest time in FP3 for Mercedes.

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