Formula 1's Vegas Debut Rocked by Manhole Cover Mishap
Las Vegas' Formula 1 debut ended on a bumpsy start as the first practice session was abruptly halted just 19 minutes in. The stewards announced that the session wouldn't be resumed.
Spaniard Carlos Sainz, driving for Ferrari, was the unfortunate first victim, his car coming to a halt on the famous Las Vegas Boulevard eight minutes after the session began. His car apparently bounced over an obstacle, causing it to shake violently.
Las Vegas: A Grand Ambition
During a subsequent inspection, the FIA discovered that the concrete frame surrounding a manhole cover had failed. They immediately had to check all the other manhole covers, delaying the resumption of the session. They needed to consult with the organizers and adjust the schedule accordingly.
After the sudden halt for Sainz, the red flag was waved, and his car was towed away. Esteban Ocon's Alpine suffered damage too, with its chassis requiring replacement, rumoredly due to a manhole cover incident.
A Rocky Start for Formula 1
This unfortunate turn of events in Sin City marks a rocky start for Formula 1 in the US market's prestige project. Liberty Media, the rights holder, aims to expand further in the American market with the Las Vegas Grand Prix. The initial practice session usually lasts an hour, but the manhole cover issue forced an early closure.
Despite the setbacks, Sainz and other drivers are expected to participate in the scheduled training sessions for the GP Las Vegas. The penultimate race of the season is scheduled for Sunday, and Sainz is likely to participate in additional training sessions in Las Vegas to improve his performance.
Enrichment Insights:
- Historically, manhole covers have posed a risk in Formula 1 races. During the 2023 Las Vegas Grand Prix, Carlos Sainz's Ferrari was affected by a loose manhole cover, damaging the car during a practice session.
- This incident highlights the importance of careful inspection and maintenance of the track during events to ensure the safety of the high-speed racers and prevent similar mishaps.
