2023 Formula 1 Preview & Review.

[Fortitude]

"Out of this world" - Las Vegas F1 Grand Prix ticket prices and packages are ridiculously expensive.
The Emperor package: Just a cool $5 million. Wynn Las Vegas package: At a cost of $1 million. Lucky 888 package: At a cost of $888,000.
15th November 2023, 09:58
John McDougall
SPORTbible

A video on TikTok has listed the various tickets and packages on offer, which are quite frankly crazy money. A standard general admission ticket just to get in is $500, though that is dirt cheap compared to what is coming up. The Venetian Tower package includes three night stay there, two grandstand tickets, food and non-alcoholic drinks included for $8,800. The Augustus Premium package will give you a king-size bedroom, access to the F1 Paddock - with wi-fi a chargeable extra - at a cost of $115,000.

The Lucky 888 package comes with a couple of suites and four standard rooms, 10 grandstand tickets, but only eight driver meet and greet tickets, at a cost of $888,000. The Wynn Las Vegas package includes six VIP tickets with access to all of Wynn Casino offerings, such as golf and spa facilities, plus airport transfers - but at a cost of $1 million.

And last but by no means least, the Emperor package, which probably hints at the upcoming cost, includes a Nobu sky villa with a terrace for up to 75 people, 12 tickets to the F1 Paddock, a Rolls Royce driver for the weekend to ferry you about, as well as VIP tickets to go and see Adele in concert. And the cost of this, you ask? Just a cool $5 million. So if you're thinking of going, you might need quite a few mates involved to chip in and get the cost down.

"Out of this world";

https://www.sportbible.com/f1/las-ve...76891-20231001


FIRST LOOK: The all-new F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix circuit in pictures
15 Nov 2023
Connor McDonagh
Crash.Net

A first look at the all-new F1 Las Vegas Street Circuit which will host this weekend's 2023 Las Vegas Grand Prix. F1 will race in Las Vegas for the first time since 1982 at an all-new street venue.

The event will be spectacular given the iconic Vegas Strip backdrop, with several A-list celebrities no doubt attending. Here's a look at the circuit ahead of this weekend...

‘Las Vegas Grand Prix circuit in pictures’;

https://www.crash.net/f1/news/104084...d-prix-circuit


First pictures from the 2023 Las Vegas Grand Prix weekend
F1 Pictures
Posted on 15th November 2023, 11:40
Written by Keith Collantine
RaceFans

A new street track has been formed using the famous Las Vegas Strip, several of the roads surrounding it and a new, purpose-built paddock. The course loops around many distinctive hotels and landmarks.

‘First pictures’;

https://www.racefans.net/2023/11/15/...-prix-weekend/


First Las Vegas GP track impressions drop with red flag prediction issued
15 Nov 2023 12:00 PM
Henry Valantine
PlanetF1.com

Former Formula 1 driver Karun Chandhok has praised Las Vegas Grand Prix organisers for the job they have done producing the circuit and getting it ready “well in time” for the race. “I have to say, they’ve done a really good job,” Chandhok said in a video he posted on X [formerly Twitter].

“The tarmac looks really good, pretty high grip I think as well. Given the temperatures, I was a bit worried about the grip level, but I think the tarmac could be quite grippy actually. It’s been amazing to walk around the track and see that it’s all done well in time, no last-minute panics, so very impressive and I’m looking forward to seeing cars on track.”

Talking about the subject further, the Sky Sports pundit believes there could be potential for red flags over the course of the weekend as the drivers get to grips with navigating the tight confines of the walls around Las Vegas. Alongside that, the temperature drop-off they will experience on the long straights into hard braking zones in cold temperatures will prove to be a “very tricky” challenge for the drivers.

‘Red flag prediction issued’;

https://www.planetf1.com/news/karun-...st-impressions


Beyond the bloated hype, why the Las Vegas GP is worth waking up for
November 15th 2023
Author: Motor Sport
Motor Sport Magazine

Can the Las Vegas Grand Prix live up to the hype? For F1’s marketing department, this season appears to have been less about the championship and more about ticking off the days until the series returns to Nevada.

There have been launch parties, demonstrations, and even countdown clocks to the race muscling in on recent grands prix. There’ll be no respite when the engines start up either, with a bloated schedule of events, one-off liveries, and heavily-branded hoardings, not to mention a vast orb of advertising planted right next to the circuit.

But at least there’s hope of genuine entertainment as cars tear down The Strip at more then 200mph, past the famous neon skyline, which is more than can be said for the much-derided previous effort in the 1980s, held in the Caesars Palace car park. F1 has invested heavily in the Las Vegas Grand Prix, and that extends to a one-off opening party this year, which could make the Miami Grand Prix, with its over-the-top driver introductions and celebrity appearances, seem like a village disco.

‘Launch parties, demonstrations, and even countdown clocks’;

https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/a...?nowprocket=1#


These crazy things can be expected during the F1 weekend at Las Vegas
15 November 2:30PM
Author Rory Mitchell
RacingNews365

This weekend the Formula 1 circus will descend on the entertainment city of the world: Las Vegas. Will it be a race to remember, or will what happens in Vegas stay in Vegas? The start time in Las Vegas is set for Saturday, November 18 at 22:00 local (Sunday, 06:00 GMT time).

It's a long-standing tradition for F1 races to be held on Sunday, but in this case an exception has been made so that the race in other time zones will not take place on Monday. In fact, three of the next four races will be held on a Saturday, with Bahrain and Saudi Arabia following suit in 2024 because of Ramadan.

Special kerbs: Las Vegas is also known as a gambling city and the organisation has come up with a nice way to commemorate it. The kerbs will be painted to have the shapes of spades, diamond and clubs on them, adding extra character to the street circuit. Hopefully nobody will be gambling with track limits...

‘Crazy things can be expected’;

https://racingnews365.com/these-wack...d-in-las-vegas


Las Vegas GP Weather: Latest forecast for F1 race on The Strip
The Las Vegas GP is the last of three F1 races in the USA in the 2023 world championship - could it be the first with rain?
November 15, 2023
By Adam Dickinson
Total Motorsport

The 2023 Las Vegas Grand Prix marks a journey into the unknown for Formula 1 – and not in the Hangover-esque fashion that’s usually associated with trips to Sin City. A new track featuring sessions starting at midnight in a desert is a recipe for uncertainty, with tyre temperatures predicted to be a major issue, despite Pirelli bringing their softest tyres in an attempt to combat the problem.

The nature of the Las Vegas Strip circuit will only compound the problem too, with long straights, not many corners and even fewer high-speed turns. The flat-out run along The Strip itself is even longer than the nearly-straight to end a lap of Baku, a generous corner count tallies 16 and only a handful aren’t slow-speed, while the smooth track surface will make the rubber even more chilled.

‘Latest forecast’;

https://www.total-motorsport.com/las...ace-the-strip/

[Fortitude]

Inside F1's lavish Las Vegas GP launch party that left drivers ‘looking like clowns’.
The drivers were placed on raised platforms that lifted them onto giant plinths lined up along the pit straight in a scene reminiscent of the Hunger Games franchise. From there, they could wave at the spectators while a striking lights show occurred in the background.
07:46, Thu, Nov 16, 2023
By Harry Smith
Daily and Sunday Express

The Las Vegas Grand Prix weekend started on Thursday with all 20 drivers taking part in an eye-catching opening ceremony in front of a star-studded crowd on the streets of Sin City. This VIP treatment also translated into the F1 paddock, where a giant ‘Welcome to Las Vegas’ sign had been erected. As the drivers made their way into the area, the sign would change to show their name. Drivers were then greeted by a number of Elvis impersonators as they navigated past the melee as well as members of the Blue Man Group.

Each driver was greeted by Elvis impersonators and Blue Man Group members (Image: GETTY)
The Ferrari boys are Piff the Magic Dragon fans #LasVegasGP pic.twitter.com/m1k7lsAWSR
— Motorsport.com (@Motorsport) November 16, 2023
Naturally, these theatrics have attracted some mixed responses with Lando Norris claiming: “It's more of a show than it was a few years ago, to be honest, I just want to come here and drive." Reigning world champion Max Verstappen added: “We are just standing up there, looking like a clown.”

Verstappen has been the driver most critical of the spectacle surrounding the Las Vegas GP. Speaking to RacingNews365 ahead of the opening ceremony, he stated: “This is 99 per cent show and 1 per cent sport. It doesn't bother me at all. I don't feel anything about it, to be honest. I just want to focus on performing. In any case, I don't like all the things that come with it. Sometimes it's part of it, but it doesn't bother me at all."

‘Reminiscent of the Hunger Games franchise’;

https://www.express.co.uk/sport/f1-a...P-launch-party


Verstappen: Las Vegas GP ‘99% show 1% sporting event’
Thursday 16th November, 2023 - 6:44pm
By Ian Parkes
Speedcafe

Max Verstappen has delivered a scathing early assessment of the Las Vegas Grand Prix weekend, declaring it to be “99 percent show and one percent sporting event.”

Verstappen was speaking after being involved in an opening ceremony that incorporated a drone display, followed by musical performances from a range of artists before the driver pairings from each team were elevated onto a raised platform in front of a packed main grandstand along the start-finish straight.

For the three-time F1 champion, it was clearly a spectacle conducted through gritted teeth as in his media session that followed soon after he made clear his displeasure at being in Las Vegas for what he feels is already more of an exhibition.

‘Spectacle conducted through gritted teeth’;

https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/11/16...vegas-gp-show/


Lewis Hamilton: Las Vegas will never match Silverstone
Lewis Hamilton has taken six Grand Prix victories in the USA for McLaren and Mercedes
November 16, 2023
By Adam Dickinson
Total Motorsport

Lewis Hamilton stressed he’s still excited for the 2023 Las Vegas Grand Prix despite admitting The Strip Circuit doesn’t look exciting and will never be like Silverstone on the Formula 1 calendar.

“It is a big show for sure,” Hamilton told the media. “And it’s never going to be like Silverstone, but maybe over time the people in this community, the community here will grow to love the sport just as we’ve had the privilege of growing up and experiencing.”

“Maybe the track will be good, maybe it’ll be bad. It was so-so on the sim, it’s definitely not Silverstone but I think don’t knock it until you try it.”

‘Never match Silverstone’;

https://www.total-motorsport.com/f1-...h-silverstone/


PADDOCK INSIDER: How the Entertainment Capital of the World is living up to its billing ahead of the Las Vegas GP.
Walking into the paddock on Wednesday evening ahead of media day, the organisers of the Las Vegas Grand Prix left visitors in doubt as to where they were in the world...
16 November 2023
F1 Correspondent & Presenter
Lawrence Barretto
Formula One - Official Site


A chorus of Elvises greeted the drivers as they strolled through the entrance gates, individual bespoke ‘Welcome to Vegas’ signs with the drivers’ names were on hand for each to pose with – after, of course, they were handed a sparkly sequin-emblazed jacket with ‘Las Vegas 23’ plastered on the back.

As you wander down the huge paddock, lavish hospitality units straddle one side – each with their team logo etched in neon lights above the door. Opposite, several teams have brought bespoke designs for the garage doors – with Haas tweaking the famous Vegas sign to read 'Welcome to Haas Vegas'.

Look up and you’ll see an enormous four-level building, the length of three American Football fields back-to-back. An F1 logo that adorns the top of the building and is so big and bright, you’ll likely be able to see it from the planes taking off and landing at nearby Harry Reid International Airport.

‘A chorus of Elvises’;

https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/a...z1VxzJksV.html


'Not much margin for error' - Lance Stroll on Las Vegas GP challenge
16 Nov 2023
Formula One - Official Site (Video)

Having tested the circuit on the simulator Aston Martin driver Lance Stroll is expecting a "challenging" time at this weekend's 2023 Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix.

'Not much margin for error';

https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/v...977777526.html

[Fortitude]

Formula One is bringing thousands of racing fans to Las Vegas this weekend. Not everyone is thrilled about it.
Just don’t expect most local residents to be excited about it.
10:20 AM EST, Thu November 16, 2023
By Leah Asmelash
CNN

F1 has invested more than half a billion dollars in the three-day event, creating a star-studded spectacle complete with fancy parties, celebrity chefs and musical performances by J Balvin, Journey, John Legend, Keith Urban, Steve Aoki and many others.

After two days of practice and qualifying runs, the race itself will take place Saturday night, allowing for peak visuals with the drivers zooming past such illuminated landmarks as Caesar’s Palace, the Bellagio fountains, the Paris hotel’s faux Eiffel Tower and the new Sphere entertainment venue. The cheapest seats cost more than $800.

But for locals, the reality is a little more complicated. Residents have complained on social media and to local news outlets about steep prices, event-related traffic gridlock, barriers blocking public views of the Strip and their sense that the event is geared to high rollers but not to the average fan.

‘Thousands of racing fans’;

https://edition.cnn.com/2023/11/16/t...cec/index.html


The 10 craziest features at the Las Vegas Grand Prix as race dubbed 'the Super Bowl of F1'
Published 15:36, 16 November 2023 GMT
Ryan Smart
SPORTbible

10 of the most eye-catching features in the build-up to raceday.
A floating Red Bull in a nightclub: Yeah, we're not sure about this one either.
F1 car in a restaurant: If you liked the Red Bull hanging from a nightclub roof, here's another Red Bull placed on a casino table - as you do.
A real F1 wedding chapel: If you want an F1-themed wedding in Vegas, there is a special F1 wedding chapel set up near the race track.

Cars with underfloor LED lights.
Special drone show: Part of Wednesday's opening ceremony saw a drone show take place.
Vegas-themed helmets: There are plenty of Las Vegas-themed helmets that have been unveiled by the drivers this week.

Celebrity appearances: Sunday's grid will likely be a who's who of world superstars (good luck, Martin Brundle).
Interactive F1 Sphere: F1 has taken over Vegas' iconic Sphere.
Can the race live up to expectations?

‘10 craziest features at the Las Vegas Grand Prix’;

https://www.sportbible.com/f1/f1-las...58210-20231116


Hollywood star blown away by 'genius' F1 legend ahead of Las Vegas Grand Prix
Thursday 16 November 2023 16:27
Sam Cook

Canadian actor Keanu Reeves has hailed Ross Brawn as a genius after spending time with him and his former colleagues as part of a Disney+ documentary. 'Brawn: The Impossible Story' was released this week, and takes a look at the famous standalone season for the Brawn GP team, in which they won a world championship double.

Jenson Button and Brawn GP's success is arguably the greatest fairytale that Formula 1 has ever and likely will ever see. After motorsport giant Honda's withdrawal from F1 at the end of 2008, Brawn famously 'bought' the team for £1, and stuck a Mercedes engine in the back of a newly designed car.

In that one season, Button managed to win the drivers' championship and helped, alongside Rubens Barrichello, seal the constructors' championship too, before the team was sold to Mercedes in 2010.

‘Disney+ documentary.’;

https://www.gpfans.com/en/f1-news/10...as-grand-prix/


Las Vegas Grand Prix: Formula One taking expensive gamble that isn't guaranteed to pay off
16 November 2023 at 0:54 pm
Matt Majendie
Yahoo! UK & Ireland

Formula One is gambling big on Las Vegas to the tune of at least £400million — and there is no guarantee it will pay off.

A sell-out in excess of 100,000 spectators a day is expected. Prices in some quarters are astronomical, notably a £4m Emperor Package, which includes a five-night stay in a 10,000square foot villa at Caesars, a private chef and Rolls-Royce, among other luxuries.

‘Expensive gamble’;

https://uk.news.yahoo.com/las-vegas-...d10L-F2ozJG5jw


Las Vegas F1 Grand Prix Drivers' Conference
NOVEMBER 16, 2023
Motorsport
Racecars

DRIVER GROUP 1 – Nico HÜLKENBERG (Haas), Zhou GUANYU (Alfa Romeo), Fernando ALONSO (Aston Martin), Lando NORRIS (McLaren), Carlos SAINZ (Ferrari)

DRIVER GROUP 2 – Yuki TSUNODA (AlphaTauri), Pierre GASLY (Alpine), Lewis HAMILTON (Mercedes), Sergio PÉREZ (Red Bull), Alex ALBON (Williams)

‘F1 Grand Prix Drivers' Conference’;

https://www.racecar.com/news/99373/m...ers-conference


Las Vegas Grand Prix circuit tipped to create nail-biting action
Thursday 16 November 2023 17:12
Anna Malyon
GPFans

Chandhok also delved into the intricacies of planning the circuit, acknowledging the challenges of a street circuit, and understanding that the city couldn't come to a standstill just because F1 was in town. “The first priority is safety,” he told the Sky F1 Podcast.

“They’ve got to make sure that if they’re going to make these tracks with these big straights and slow corners at the end of it, you’ve got to have runoff area. In case there’s a brake failure or drivers have an incident or an issue you’ve got to have escape for them.”

“I think they’ve done a really good job here. You know it looks like you’ve got some really good width to get side by side action. “You’ve got to do all of this work while the city is still living,” he added.

‘Nail-biting action’;

https://www.gpfans.com/en/f1-news/10...ok-sky-sports/


Pirelli warn of serious tyre issues at 2023 Las Vegas GP
Temperatures could be as low as 12 degrees for the race in Las Vegas
November 15, 2023
By Brandon Sutton
Total Motorsport

Formula 1’s tyre provider Pirelli have warned the teams to expect graining at the 2023 Las Vegas Grand Prix due to the cold conditions, long straights and lack of fast corners making it hard to maintain temperatures in tyres. Graining is a form of blistering, and it happens when the temperature on the inside of the tyre differs from the surface of the temperature on the outside causing rapid tyre degradation restricting both overall speed and stint lengths.

In order to combat this, Pirelli have brought their softest range of tyres to Las Vegas. However, they do not expect it to be enough despite rejecting different methods of using the heat blankets to allow the tyres to leave the pits slightly warmer than usual.

“We have opted for the three softest tire compounds [C3 to C5] because the temperatures are expected to be very low,” said Mario Isola, Pirelli’s sporting director.

‘Pirelli warn of serious tyre issues’;

https://www.total-motorsport.com/f1-...-las-vegas-gp/

[Fortitude]

F1 forced to cancel first Las Vegas GP session as unsafe track destroys two cars.
Carlos Sainz Jr ground to a halt and Esteban Ocon needed a new chassis as the first practice session at the Las Vegas Grand Prix was cancelled due to track conditions.
05:23, 17 Nov 2023
By Rich Jones Assistant Sports Editor
The Mirror

Cars finally took to the track around the iconic strip for the first time on Thursday night after months of buildup. However, the action didn’t last long after Carlos Sainz Jr ground to a halt after sustaining damage to his Ferrari.

Sainz pulled over on the Strip in the final sector after encountering a problem with his car. He bottomed out against something on track under yellow flags which killed his engine and saw him forced to stop his car.

The yellow flag was upgraded to a red flag, stopping the session as FIA officials went out to inspect what has happened. They later confirmed a drain hole cover was to blame for the damage.

‘Unsafe track destroys two cars’;

https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/formu...elled-31460529


(FP1) First Practice Results – 2023 Las Vegas Grand Prix
17th November 2023
by Emer Hedderman
FormulaSpy

Results (Classification):
1. Charles Leclerc Scuderia Ferrari -1:40.909
2. Nico Hulkenberg Haas +2.537
3. Kevin Magnussen Haas +3.352
4. Max Verstappen Red Bull Racing +3.488
5. Esteban Ocon Alpine +4.456
6. George Russell Mercedes +4.588
7. Carlos Sainz Scuderia Ferrari +4.915
8. Yuki Tsunoda AlphaTauri +4.999
9. Sergio Perez Red Bull Racing +5.884
10. Valtteri Bottas Alfa Romeo +6.238

‘Las Vegas Grand Prix – Here are the results from the shortened opening practice session for this weekend’s 2023 F1 World Championship race around Las Vegas’;

https://formulaspy.com/f1/fp1-first-...and-prix-83511


AS IT HAPPENED: Follow all the action from first practice for the Las Vegas Grand Prix
17 November 2023
Becky Hart.
Special Contributor.
Formula One - Official Site

‘AS IT HAPPENED’;

https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/a...jgGr32moD.html


F1 Live - Las Vegas GP Free Practice 1 Watchalong | Live timings + Commentary
Friday, 17 November 2023
Racing Statistics

F1 Live Las Vegas Grand Prix FP1 Watchalong | Sao Paolo GP Live | USA GP Live F1 Live Timings, Updates and Commentary of all F1 Sessions with Racing Statistics. Lets Watchalong!

‘Free Practice 1 Watchalong’;

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JxeCQhhtI3s


‘It is unacceptable for F1’ – More problems for Las Vegas Grand Prix as first practice session is abandoned
Friday, 17 November 2023
Philip Duncan
The Irish Independent

Formula One bosses were dealt a hugely embarrassing blow after first practice for the Las Vegas Grand Prix was cancelled.

The running under the lights of the Las Vegas strip was suspended when Carlos Sainz broke down in his Ferrari with just eight minutes on the clock.

INCLUDES PHOTOGRAPH: Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz, of Spain, looks at the bottom of his car after running over a manhole cover during the first practice session for the Formula One Las Vegas Grand Prix auto race, Thursday, Nov. 16, 2023, in Las Vegas.

‘It is unacceptable for F1’;

https://www.independent.ie/sport/oth...589471203.html


Vegas FP1 Red Flagged after 9 minutes due to track issue
17th November 2023
by Emer Hedderman
FormulaSpy

After the sphere counted down to the start of the session, it was Lance Stroll who was the first to take to the circuit. As is the custom at Aston Martin, he pitted at the end of his out lap so it was Valtteri Bottas who put the first time on the board, a 1:50.227 on the hard tyres.

After just over ten minutes Race Control announced that the session would not be resumed as a drain cover issue needed to be investigated. During the Red Flag, Alpine was working on Esteban Ocon’s car after he took damage from what was also suspected to be a drain cover and he, and most likely Sainz, would need a chassis change.

The FIA then posted an update which said “Following inspection, it was the concrete frame around a manhole cover that has failed. We now need to check all of the other manhole covers which will take some time – we will be discussing with the local circuit engineering team about the length of time it will take to resolve and will update with any resultant changes to the schedule.”

‘Vegas FP1 Red Flagged after 9 minutes’;

https://formulaspy.com/f1/vegas-fp1-...ck-issue-83510


Max Verstappen fears proven right as Las Vegas GP track defect explained
17 Nov 2023 5:20 AM
Sam Cooper
PlanetF1.com

It was a loose drain cover that caused a farcical end to the first practice session of the Las Vegas GP. FP1 was just eight minutes old when Carlos Sainz drove over the loose cover on the Strip straight, causing a nasty thud to his car and significant damage that left him stranded by the side of the road.

With barely a sixth of the time completed, the FIA cancelled the session as they believed the loose cover was a significant enough safety issue and could not be fixed within the remaining time.

As for how the issue occurred, Sky Sports F1’s Ted Kravitz reported that the frame of the drain cover and may have come up from the pressure caused by cars going over it. “You would say ‘well, wouldn’t this show up in any kind of inspections earlier on when the track was inspected?’” Kravitz posed. “Our understanding of the manhole cover was that it’s actually the frame around it that has come up naturally.”

‘Max Verstappen fears proven right’;

https://www.planetf1.com/news/max-ve...vegas-gp-track


Brundle fears ANOTHER Las Vegas GP session will be cancelled
Friday 17 November 2023 07:12
Cal Gaunt
GPFans

Sky Sports F1 pundit Brundle does not expect to see the cars back out on track for the second practice session. “That’s it. That’s it for today I think, from my experience. Fixing that, checking everything else that’s out there and fixing that and letting it dry and making sure it won’t come out again, is a big job.”

"Then, theatrically they’re going to open the strip as soon as the F1 is finished, if that’s on the strip. I believe it is, isn’t it? On the way down to turn 14. That’s a very, very big issue, if they are other areas like that like around the track.”

"As I said, at that moment at top speed where the car’s ran at their lowest, when they’re compressed with the aerodynamics, so that’s where it’s going to show up first, but they’ll have to check everything else, because of the Venturi underneath the car.”

“Big job”;

https://www.gpfans.com/en/f1-news/10...sky-sports-f1/

[Fortitude]

Fred Vasseur livid with ‘unacceptable’ Sainz drain damage in Las Vegas FP1.
“We f***ed up the session for Carlos. We won’t be part of FP2 for sure, I think it’s just unacceptable for F1 today.”
November 17, 2023
By Ed Spencer
Total Motorsport

Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur has chastised the organisers of the Las Vegas Grand Prix after Carlos Sainz suffered session-ending damage in the opening practice session.

Ten minutes into Formula 1’s first session back in Las Vegas since the 1982 Caesars Palace GP, Sainz drove over a loose manhole cover on the strip, wrecking his Ferrari’s floor and ending the session early.

“We damaged completely the monocoque, the engine, the battery,” an enraged Vasseur told media after the session. “I think it’s just unacceptable, it cost us a fortune.”

‘Unacceptable’;

https://www.total-motorsport.com/f1-...las-vegas-fp1/


Fears grow ‘that’s it’ for Las Vegas GP Friday over track safety issues
17 Nov 2023 5:54 AM
Jamie Woodhouse
PlanetF1.com

Sky F1 pundit Martin Brundle says that from his experience, the on-track action is over on the opening day of the Las Vegas Grand Prix. Drivers ventured out for their exploratory laps of this new territory, the Las Vegas Strip Circuit, as Formula 1’s hotly-anticipated Las Vegas GP weekend got underway.

‘But, with less than 10 minutes gone, the red flags were out as Carlos Sainz brought his Ferrari to a stop down the Strip straight’;

https://www.planetf1.com/news/martin...gp-friday-over


Four big consequences of F1's Las Vegas GP FP1 nightmare
Nov 17, 2023
by Scott Mitchell-Malm
The Race

A nightmare start to Formula 1’s Las Vegas Grand Prix, with the opening practice session abandoned early on, has big consequences. FP1 was red flagged after just eight minutes when Carlos Sainz hit a loose drain cover on one of the city street circuit’s long straights and slowed to a halt in his Ferrari. Just over 10 minutes later the FIA said the session would not be resumed – a decision that has significant consequences in the worst possible beginning for F1’s brand new, big-ticket event.

A BIG ISSUE TO FIX: The cause of the problem was identified swiftly: the concrete frame around a manhole cover failed. This seems to have let the cover be partially lifted as cars drove over it and left it hanging loose before Sainz struck it.

NOT A GOOD LOOK AT ALL: The hype, the expense, the attention – there are huge expectations for this grand prix. And this is nothing other than an extremely unfortunate, problematic way to begin. It is the worst possible start. Fans on-site will surely feel shortchanged even if the schedule is amended to, say, increase the running in FP2.

‘DAMAGED CARS, LOST VITAL RUNNING’;

https://www.the-race.com/formula-1/f...fp1-nightmare/


Carlos Sainz car wrecked as £565m Las Vegas Grand Prix plunged into chaos within eight minutes
17th November 2023, 8:14 am
Sean O'Brien
talkSPORT

The highly-anticipated Las Vegas Grand Prix got off to an embarrassing start as first practice was cancelled within eight minutes. Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz struck a loose manhole cover at 200mph on the Las Vegas Boulevard and the running was immediately suspended.

Alpine star Esteban Ocon was also caught up in the chaos and smashed into the debris. Shortly afterwards, it was announced the session would not be resumed and there are doubts over whether second practice will take place.

The Spaniard emerged unscathed but Ferrari chief Frederic Vasseur confirmed ‘extensive’ damage to the car, including the monocoque, engine, and battery. Vasseur said: “He (Sainz) said I hit something on track, and he didn’t know what it was. It is just unacceptable for F1.” Meanwhile, Alpine revealed the chassis on Ocon’s car needed to be replaced.

‘£565m Las Vegas Grand Prix plunged into chaos within eight minutes’;

https://talksport.com/sport/1644655/


Second F1 practice delayed and extended at Las Vegas GP
Nov 17, 2023
by Josh Suttill
The Race

The second Formula 1 practice session at the Las Vegas Grand Prix will take place two hours later than planned and will be extended to 90 minutes. First practice on the brand-new Las Vegas Strip circuit went embarrassingly wrong just eight minutes into the session when both Esteban Ocon and Carlos Sainz sustained damage to their cars as a result of the track surface.

"We are currently expecting around two hours of delay from the originally scheduled start time for FP2 in order for the local circuit engineering team to carry out the necessary works on the track," it said. "The session will be extended to 90 minutes. Will update with more specifics when they’re available."

‘Chaos within eight minutes’;

https://www.the-race.com/formula-1/s...-las-vegas-gp/


When Las Vegas GP practice will start after F1 session cancelled over track safety
A loose manhole cover in first practice saw the session cancelled after just a few minutes while the rest of the Las Vegas Grand Prix weekend is on hold while the track is fixed
Nov 17, 2023
By Daniel Moxon Senior F1 Writer
The Mirror

Second practice at the Las Vegas Grand Prix was heavily delayed after the first was cancelled over a safety issue which caused significant damage to two cars. As a result, second practice which was due to begin at 8am GMT was delayed indefinitely. The hope was that the session would be able to take place on Friday as planned but, given it was already past midnight in Las Vegas when that call was made, time was limited.

Even if practice is able to take place, Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur said his team will not be able to get Sainz's car ready in time for him to take part. He described the situation as "just unacceptable" as he told reporters that chassis, engine and battery damage had been done.

"The show is mega and I am very happy with what [F1 commercial rights holders] Liberty [Media] did around the race but we have to separate the show and the sporting side," said the Frenchman. The show is mega. The opening ceremony was something mega in F1 but it is not because you are doing this that you don't have to do the job on the sporting side. You can do the show and do a good job on the sporting side."

‘When Las Vegas GP practice will start’;

https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/formu...y-fia-31460809


Ferrari echo Max Verstappen criticism as Las Vegas GP practice scrapped in F1 shambles
First practice at the Las Vegas Grand Prix was cancelled after 20 minutes while the start of the second has been delayed due to unsafe conditions on the newly-created F1 track
Nov 17, 2023
By Daniel Moxon Senior F1 Writer
The Mirror

Furious Ferrari chief Frederic Vasseur flew off the handle after issues on the Las Vegas Grand Prix track which saw practice cancelled did damage to Carlos Sainz's car which will "cost a fortune".

His words echo those of Max Verstappen who was left very unimpressed after taking part on the 'opening ceremony' for the event on Wednesday night. The champion slammed the event as being "99 per cent show, and one per cent sporting event".

‘Ferrari echo Max Verstappen criticism’;

https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/formu...rrari-31460654

[Fortitude]

Las Vegas GP: Leclerc leads Ferrari one-two in trouble-free Practice 2.
With the lights going green at 2:30am local time after all the drain covers and water valves had been secured, drivers finally got their first proper look at the new street circuit on and around the Strip.
17 November 2023
Ben Issatt.
Inside Racing12:13

The Ferraris upped the ante on their second set with Leclerc claiming P1 on a 1m35.265s, almost half a second clear of teammate Sainz. The Monegsque even had time for a small tussle with Verstappen as the pair went side-by-side down the Strip and through the chicane section.

Fernando Alonso improved to sit a hundredth behind his fellow countryman in third, while street circuit specialist Sergio Perez was the lead Red Bull in fourth. Valtteri Bottas was a strong fifth for Alfa Romeo, as Verstappen only managed sixth after being one of the earlier drivers to switch onto high fuel runs.

Nico Hulkenberg took seventh running the old-spec Haas, ahead of Lance Stroll in eighth. Lewis Hamilton was the fastest Mercedes in ninth as Alex Albon completed the top 10 for Williams.

‘Leclerc leads Ferrari one-two’;

https://www.insideracing.com/formula...ree-practice-2


(FP2) Second Practice Results – 2023 Las Vegas Grand Prix
17th November 2023
by Emer Hedderman
FormulaSpy

Results (Classification):
1. Charles Leclerc Scuderia Ferrari -1:35.265
2. Carlos Sainz Scuderia Ferrari +0.517
3. Fernando Alonso Aston Martin +0.528
4. Sergio Perez Red Bull Racing +0.820
5. Valtteri Bottas Alfa Romeo +0.864
6. Max Verstappen Red Bull Racing +0.918
7. Nico Hulkenberg Haas +1.224
8. Lance Stroll Aston Martin +1.231
9. Lewis Hamilton Mercedes +1.398
10. Alex Albon Williams Racing +1.423

‘Las Vegas Grand Prix – Here are the results from the extended second session ahead of this weekend’s 2023 F1 World Championship race around Las Vegas’;

https://formulaspy.com/f1/fp2-second...and-prix-83534


LIVE COVERAGE: Follow all the action from second practice for the Las Vegas Grand Prix
17 November 2023
Becky Hart.
Special Contributor
Formula One - Official Site

‘As it happened’;

https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/a...fTBwAYZ5U.html


F1 Live - Las Vegas GP Free Practice 2 Watchalong | Live timings + Commentary
17th Nov 2023
Racing Statistics

F1 Live Las Vegas Grand Prix FP2 Watchalong | Sao Paolo GP Live | USA GP Live F1 Live Timings, Updates and Commentary of all F1 Sessions with Racing Statistics. Lets Watchalong!

‘Free Practice 2 Watchalong’;

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rmuc1dkokd0


F1 fans removed from grandstands ahead of delayed Vegas FP2
17th Nov 2023, 10:34
AUTHOR: Alex Kalinauckas
Motorsport.com

A since-deleted statement released by the Vegas race on its social media platforms read: "Due to logistical considerations for our fans and our staff, we have made the determination that we will be closing all Las Vegas Grand Prix fan areas at 1.30am. We look forward to welcoming fans back later today for exciting FP3 and qualifying sessions".

Motorsport.com understands that fans have had to leave the fan areas due to security team shifts ending, which means the grandstands and fan zones cannot operate as expected. It is not currently clear why the statement was deleted from the Vegas race's social media accounts.
But the development means the FP2 session will therefore take place in front of empty grandstands and finish at 4am, the time the sections of track that take in public roads were supposed to be fully open to the public.

Skid Carrera: I'd be so pi**ed off if I'd paid for tickets and got ejected. I'm surprised they're not reporting armed conflict at this point...
Mionel Lessi: this is what you get for the most expensive tickets of the season

‘F1 fans removed from grandstands’;

https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/f...-fp2/10547613/


Carlos Sainz hit with Las Vegas GP grid penalty as stewards blame ‘highly unusual circumstances’
17 Nov 2023 10:02 AM
Sam Cooper
PlanetF1.com

Carlos Sainz has been hit with a grid penalty for changing parts as the FIA admitted regulations did not allow them to overlook it.

Sainz drove over a loose water cover during FP1 that destroyed his car, causing significant damage to the survival cell, internal combustion engine, energy store and control electronics.

But despite the fault being entirely on the FIA, Sainz has still been handed a minimum 10-place penalty for taking a third energy store of the season, outside the permitted pool.

‘Grid Penalty’;

https://www.planetf1.com/news/carlos...p-grid-penalty


F1 fans share their fury over farcical start to Las Vegas Grand Prix
17th November 2023, 10009:31
Alex Daniel
Indy

Dom
Hello everyone, F1 has been cancelled so welcome to the Las Vegas Invitational golf tournament

@tsimiks
Las Vegas GP FP1 session went down the drain, literally.

Michael Jimenez
This is par for the course (no pun intended) on Vegas roads. They wanted a street circuit…well…here you go for the authentic Vegas driving experience!

rem
real footage of drivers hitting the drain covers at las vegas gp

‘Got off to a disastrous start’;

https://www.indy100.com/sport/f1-las-vegas-grand-prix

[Fortitude]

‘We flew only for today’ - Disappointed F1 fans react to Las Vegas GP ejection.
Police were seen clearing out the grandstands shortly before FP2 got underway after a delay of two-and-a-half hours while drain cover fixes were implemented.
17 Nov 2023
Lewis Larkam
Crash.Net

Sky Sports News’ Craig Slater reported that fans “waited patiently” for up to five hours in the hope of seeing some action before being told to leave at 1.30am local time. Slater said he understood this was “due to the contract of the staff members here elapsing at that time” but added “there was no prior warning that this could happen”.

“Ridiculous,” one fan told Sky. “We waited for four hours and they gave us hope by saying ‘at 2am we’re going to have the race’. But nothing happened. And now they are telling us to leave. So what a night!”

Another explained: “We came from Los Angeles, we flew only for today. We spent the money for the airplane, the tickets for this place, and nothing.” One said: “I’ve been here for the last two-to-three hours at least and then we were asked to leave.”

‘We flew only for today’;

https://www.crash.net/f1/news/104103...as-gp-ejection


F1 fans 'threatened with trespass charge' after disastrous Las Vegas GP start
November 17th 2023
Author: Cambridge Kisby
Motor Sport Magazine

Police reportedly threatened spectators with trespass charges unless they left the circuit after a lengthy delay when Carlos Sainz‘s Ferrari hit a loose drain cover on the track at the start of the first practice session. Red flags brought that session to a close and pushed the start of the second practice session back by 90 minutes, well into the early hours of the morning.

“Paid $3000 for a ticket to get kicked out after FP1 got cancelled,” wrote X user Paul Loeffel. “You couldn’t pay your employees to put on an event”. Fans were further angered when they were moved on from areas outside the track where they could still watch the action through black sheets which were meant to block the view. “Las Vegas PD [police department] and private security are kicking people off of every potential viewing spot,” Loeffel added.

'Threatened with trespass charge';

https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/a...?nowprocket=1#


F1 off to rough Las Vegas start. Ferrari damaged, fans told to leave before practice ends at 4 a.m.
Nov 17, 2023
By JENNA FRYER - AP Auto Racing Writer
The Globe and Mail

The Las Vegas Grand Prix had a bumpy opening when the first practice of the $500 million Formula One race was halted nine minutes into the session Thursday night because Carlos Sainz Jr. ran over a water valve cover that badly damaged his Ferrari.

It caused the first practice to be aborted, a delay of 2 1/2 hours before second practice for track repairs, and all spectators were removed from viewing areas ahead of the 90-minute session that ended at 4 a.m. local time — the deadline for F1 to return the roads to Las Vegas commuters.

‘F1 off to rough Las Vegas start’;

https://morganton.com/ap/sports/f1-o...6fbed9f5c.html


Police eject fans minutes before Las Vegas FP2
17 November 1:50PM
Author Rory Mitchell
RacingNews365

Fans were ejected from the grandstands by local police forces minutes before FP2 started at 2:30am local time in Las Vegas. Once track action did resume, fans were unable to watch it from the grandstands as workers had already left the track premises. It is understood that the F1 Paddock Club also stopped its hospitality, while the Las Vegas Grand Prix promoter issued a statement on social media claiming fan areas were being closed.

It read: "Due to logistical considerations for our fans and our staff, we have made the determination that we will be closing all Las Vegas Grand Prix fan areas at 1:30am PT. We look forward to welcoming fans back later today for exciting FP3 and qualifying sessions."

As it was deemed unsafe for spectators to be in the stands without stewards, local authorities removed them from their seats - some of which cost upwards of $800 for the weekend.

‘Fans were ejected’;

https://racingnews365.com/police-eje...-las-vegas-fp2


F1’s treatment of Las Vegas fans “obviously not acceptable” – Ocon
Formula 1
Posted on 17th November 2023, 15:04
Written by Keith Collantine and Claire Cottingham
RaceFans

Ocon, one of the drivers whose car was damaged in the opening practice session, was glad F1 managed to resume practice, but offered his sympathy to the fans who had bought tickets but saw no running today besides the severely truncated opening session.

“It’s been good to finally get some running,” said Ocon. “Obviously I’m feeling sorry for the fans out there, though. Hopefully we’ll catch back up on the show and have some good show for them tomorrow because they haven’t seen a car run today and that is obviously not acceptable.”

“Obviously not acceptable”;

https://www.racefans.net/2023/11/17/...ceptable-ocon/


F1 fans WALK OUT after being left fuming at Las Vegas Grand Prix
Friday 17 November 2023 14:27
Sam Cook
GPFans

Formula 1 fans were left unimpressed by events during Friday practice at the Las Vegas Grand Prix, and were eventually ushered away from the circuit having seen just eight minutes of action.

With FP2 scheduled to start at midnight local time, most fans stuck around, before it was announced that FP2 would also be delayed. That led to a number of fans opting to leave the circuit, emptying the grandstands at the inaugural Las Vegas GP, which had promised so much after an impressive opening ceremony.

When it was eventually announced that an extended FP2 would take place at 2am, there had been some hope for fans that had decided to remain of seeing some F1 cars in action. However, with staffing and safety concerns, it was decided that fans would need to leave the circuit, meaning FP2 resulted in a 90 minute 'lockdown style practice session', as described by Martin Brundle, which didn't start until 2:30am local time.

'Lockdown style practice session';

https://www.gpfans.com/en/f1-news/10...i-drain-cover/


F1 fans removed from grandstands before second practice in Las Vegas
Formula 1
Posted on 17th November 2023, 12:04
Written by Keith Collantine and Claire Cottingham

The delayed second practice session for the Las Vegas Grand Prix took place in front of empty grandstands after fans who had arrived were told they had to leave. The promoters charged unusually high prices for the tickets, with access to general admission areas retailing for over $800 (£640). Drivers including Charles Leclerc, Daniel Ricciardo and Valtteri Bottas raised concerns over the cost of attendance before the weekend began.

‘F1 fans removed from grandstands’;

https://www.racefans.net/2023/11/17/...-in-las-vegas/


F1 fans rage after being kicked out of Las Vegas GP
Friday 17 November 2023 13:51
Anna Malyon
GPFans

The Las Vegas Grand Prix weekend is anticipated to host hundreds of thousands of fans, but FP2 unfolded behind closed doors as spectators were cleared from the grandstands and fan zones before the session commenced. Sky F1 pundit Ted Kravitz explained the reason behind removing fans from the areas, expressing sympathy for those who attempted to stay despite the unexpected delay.
“It looks to me now that the marshals, certainly on this grandstand opposite the pits, the police, the spectator marshals are making sure that everybody is leaving,” said Kravitz. “They’re clearing the grandstands and that I do feel extremely sorry.”

“When we were all waiting, when I was waiting at the back straight or rather the second corner straight here, I could see there were, I would say about 60 to 80 hardy fans who were sitting, maybe having a nap, but they wanted to see FP2. My heart was with them, and I was happy that they were still going to stick with it.”

‘F1 fans rage after being kicked out’;

https://www.newsnow.co.uk/h/?search=...rchheadlines=1


Delayed Las Vegas Grand Prix practice session occurs without fans
November 17, 2023 - 7:56 am
By Mick Akers / Las Vegas Review-Journal

After an hourslong delay, the second round of Las Vegas Grand Prix practice commenced at 2:30 a.m. Friday, but fans weren’t in the stands to witness it.

‘Without fans’;

https://www.reviewjournal.com/sports...-fans-2941124/

[Used to be Starter]

This is just getting better and better.

[Fortitude]

TikToker slams £1.3bn F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix where even $6000 VIP tickets have obstructed view of the track as Sin City residents, holidaymakers - and even World Champion Max Verstappen - bemoan the scandal-hit race.
A TikToker has slammed the Las Vegas Formula One Grand Prix where VIP ticket holders have spent thousands to witness the glitzy spectacle - only to discover they've been landed with an obstructed view of the track.
Published: 20:04, 17 November 2023
By Matt Drake and Arthur Parashar
Mail Online

TikTok channel Casinocompwallet posted a video of their lacklustre view of the street circuit from the VIP area, which they said cost $6000 to enter. 'This is the racetrack for the f1 from the VIP suite, you're behind the Heineken House in Las Vegas, the race few minutes and let's take a look at the track view from up here. Absolutely spectacular.'

The camera then pans to show a strip of the racing track which is partially obscured by lighting scaffolding. You can also see grim looking concrete floors behind wire fencing and even more of the track is also obscured by a Las Vegas banner/bridge stretching above the course.

When asked where he enjoyed driving on the race track, F1 World Champion Max Verstappen, pictured, said: 'No. I've had better tracks in my life'

‘$6000 VIP tickets have obstructed view of the track’;

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/art...-hit-race.html


Verstappen SLAMS Las Vegas Grand Prix track after chaotic practice
Friday 17 November 2023 21:12
Sam Cook
GPFans

Max Verstappen has admitted that he didn't enjoy driving around the Las Vegas Street Circuit during practice. Verstappen, who has been rather critical of the whole show in Vegas even before the racing began, has revealed his first thoughts on the track.

“Slippery, we didn’t run a lot in FP1 so it took time to rubber in a little more,” he told Sky Sports F1. “In the end, it was better. We managed to do the whole programme which, I guess, is most important for today."

When asked if he enjoyed driving the track, Verstappen said: “No, no. I’ve had better tracks in my life. I said that yesterday. There is nothing new that I’ve discovered. We just get on with it.”

‘Verstappen SLAMS Las Vegas Grand Prix’;

https://www.gpfans.com/en/f1-news/10...ctice-chaotic/


'CATASTROPHE': US media outlets on Las Vegas Grand Prix farce
Friday 17 November 2023 23:27
Sam Cook
GPFans

The opening night of the Las Vegas Grand Prix has been widely criticised by US media, after a series of events that left an embarrassing feeling for Formula 1.

US media angry at Las Vegas GP: The New York Post kicked things off with a story attacking quite how expensive it has been for Vegas to host an F1 race. They stoked up their readers with a story of how it took less than nine minutes for the '$500 million event to have its first catastrophe.'

Meanwhile, the Washington Post decided to focus on fans' experience at the track, with some harsh words for the organisers, who are unlikely to be giving refunds to fans. CNBC took a similar route, whilst USA Today led with the fact that world champion Max Verstappen is seemingly underwhelmed by the whole event.

'CATASTROPHE';

https://www.gpfans.com/en/f1-news/10...r-catastrophe/


The Biggest Threat to F1’s $500M Vegas Grand Prix Is…a Loose Drain Cover?
Our correspondent on the Strip details the (potentially overblown) fallout from the practice incident, which damaged three cars, most significantly that of Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz
By Wiliiam Goodman
November 17, 2023 3:09 pm
InsideHook

Like a cliché terrible night in Vegas, Formula 1 will be looking to forget the events of Thursday evening. Roughly nine minutes into the first practice session for the inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix, Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz appeared to run over something on the track, resulting in a shower of Fourth of July-worthy sparks. Fans, keen to see some fireworks, had no idea this moment would be the most exciting they’d bear witness to that night.

Spectator experience (or lack of it) became the source of a rather heated exchange during a regularly scheduled team principal press conference. The media room was about half-full as information trickled out that two other cars — the Alpine of Esteban Ocon and the Alfa of Zhou Guanyu — also sustained damage related to the drain cover. But none had damage as significant as Sainz, prompting some hot remarks from Ferrari boss Frédéric Vasseur, who immediately declared the situation “unacceptable.”

While I was at an event at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway earlier in the evening, a group of attendees pooled together to grab an Uber instead of taking a shuttle bus back to ensure they arrived on time to watch the practice so as not to miss a moment. Those same viewers were eventually asked to leave the grandstands entirely as the second practice session moved from midnight to 2 a.m., and then back again to 2:30 a.m. Police officers and security guards were documented moving the crowds out of the grandstands before turning off the lights.

‘Loose Drain Cover’;

https://www.insidehook.com/sports/bi...cover%ef%bf%bc


Minority of fans offered compensation after Las Vegas GP debacle
Saturday 18th November, 2023 - 12:56pm
By Ian Parkes
Speedcafe

Formula 1 has offered just six percent of fans compensation following the debacle that unfolded on the opening day of the Las Vegas Grand Prix. The tens of thousands of spectators who had gathered to witness the long-awaited spectacle were left short-changed as they witnessed only eight minutes of track action.

LVGP has now confirmed that all those who held a Thursday-only ticket will receive a US$200 voucher for the official store. “We appreciate your patience while we remedied the situation. This was not a decision we took lightly. As a thank you for your support, we would like to offer you a $200 voucher to the Las Vegas Grand Prix Official Shop.”

‘Formula 1 has offered just six percent of fans compensation’;

https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/11/18...-compensation/


F1 and FIA have questions to answer after Las Vegas GP shambles
Saturday 18th November, 2023 - 10:00am
By Ian Parkes
Speedcafe

For the second time in recent Formula 1 history, the self-proclaimed pinnacle of motorsport was made to look like a laughing stock in the United States. After months of hype and hyperbole, and an eye-watering half-a-billion US dollar price tag, the long-awaited Las Vegas Grand Prix began in inauspicious circumstances, and on its opening day, concluded with empty grandstands and angry fans.

It was not a good look, and now F1, as was the case 18 years ago and the Michelin tyre debacle, the sport is faced with repairing a damaged reputation. At 8.30pm local time on Thursday evening, the drawn-out build-up finally ceased as Aston Martin’s Lance Stroll became the first driver to take to the 6.201-kilometre track, with all of Vegas’ neon splendour serving as a glorious backdrop. Eight minutes later, however, a worst-case scenario unfolded as the first practice session was red-flagged.

Soon after, with a team principals’ press conference featuring Ferrari’s Fred Vasseur and Toto Wolff from Mercedes, the Frenchman’s ire was obvious as he described what happened to Sainz as “unacceptable”. Wolff was asked whether what had unfolded was “a black eye” for F1, to which he declared it “nothing”, and that “nobody would talk about it tomorrow”, sparking a retort from a member of his audience that his comment was “absolute rubbish”.

‘Las Vegas GP shambles’;

https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/11/18...s-gp-shambles/


Nevada residents at shortened F1 practice receive $200 ‘fan appreciation’ voucher
Published: Nov. 18, 2023 at 1:51 AM GMT
By C.C. McCandless
Fox 5 Vegas

LAS VEGAS, Nev. (FOX5) - After Thursday night’s first practice session for the Las Vegas Grand Prix was cut short after less than ten minutes, some local fans are receiving compensation for the inconvenience.
A “fan appreciation” email was sent to Nevada residents in attendance and it included a $200 merchandise credit.
“Guests were able to enjoy food and beverage and entertainment,” said a Las Vegas Grand Prix spokesperson. “But this is an extra gesture to share appreciation to Nevada residents.”

‘$200 ‘fan appreciation’ voucher’

https://www.fox5vegas.com/2023/11/18...ation-voucher/


Vegas GP fans offered $200 F1 merchandise vouchers after being sent home
Fans with single-day tickets who only caught eight minutes of Thursday practice for the disrupted Las Vegas Grand Prix have been offered Formula 1 merchandise vouchers by the organisers.
NOV 18, 2023, 3:18 AM
AUTHORFilip Cleeren
Motorsport.com

F1 and the Las Vegas Grand Prix released several statements explaining the situation. But rather than offering an apology or refund, fans who only hold a Thursday ticket, and therefore only got to see eight minutes of practice, were given $200 vouchers to spend in the event's online merchandise store.

‘Rather than offering an apology or refund’;

https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/v...hers/10548006/

[Fortitude]

F1 Las Vegas GP: Russell fastest as red flag ends FP3 early.
Mercedes driver George Russell topped final practice for Formula 1's Las Vegas Grand Prix that was red-flagged five minutes before the end.
NOV 18, 2023, 6:19 AM
AUTHORFilip Cleeren
Motorsport.com05:52

Following a disrupted first day of running on Thursday night and Friday morning, most of which was held behind closed doors, fans were welcomed back into the grandstands to witness final practice on the streets of Las Vegas.

Verstappen was poised to retaliate with a purple first sector, but followed AlphaTauri's Daniel Ricciardo into the Turn 12 run-off area.
That opened the door for Russell and McLaren's Oscar Piastri to trade the lead, with Russell ahead until a red flag five minutes before the end, which curtailed FP3.

The stoppage was caused by Albon, who tapped the wall hard coming out of Turn 5 and lost the left-rear wheel on his Williams.
With Albon unable to finish his final flyer, team-mate Logan Sargeant took up the mantle to claim third after what had been a promising display for the Grove team.

‘Russell fastest as red flag ends FP3 early’;

https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/l...edes/10548080/


(FP3) Third Practice Results – 2023 Las Vegas Grand Prix
18th November 2023
by Emer Hedderman
FormulaSpy

Results (Classification):
1. George Russell Mercedes -1:34.093
2. Oscar Piastri McLaren +0.398
3. Logan Sargeant Williams Racing +0.552
4. Max Verstappen Red Bull Racing +0.560
5. Sergio Perez Red Bull Racing +0.613
6. Alex Albon Williams Racing +0.633
7. Fernando Alonso Aston Martin +0.695
8. Lewis Hamilton Mercedes +0.760
9. Valtteri Bottas Alfa Romeo +0.815
10. Kevin Magnussen Haas +0.974

‘Las Vegas Grand Prix – Here are the complete results from the final practice ahead of this weekend’s 2023 F1 World Championship race around Las Vegas’;

https://formulaspy.com/f1/fp3-third-...and-prix-83551


AS IT HAPPENED: Follow all the action from third practice for the Las Vegas Grand Prix
18 November 2023
Becky Hart.
Special Contributor.
Formula One - Official Site

‘AS IT HAPPENED’;

https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/a...a7T05gDIu.html


F1 Live - Las Vegas GP Free Practice 3 Watchalong | Live timings + Commentary
18 November 2023
Racing Statistics

F1 Live Las Vegas Grand Prix FP3 Watchalong | Sao Paolo GP Live | USA GP Live F1 Live Timings, Updates and Commentary of all F1 Sessions with Racing Statistics. Lets Watchalong!

‘Free Practice 3 Watchalong’;

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=caS9qOlv_d0


George Russell tops red flagged final practice ahead of Las Vegas GP qualifying
November 18, 2023
By Matt Neill
Total Motorsport

George Russell topped the timing charts for Mercedes in third practice at the Las Vegas GP ahead of qualifying with a time of 1:34.093.

The session was red flagged and not resumed with four minutes left on the clock after Alex Albon hit the barriers, causing significant damage to his Williams and sending his left rear tyre rolling down The Strip.

‘George Russell tops red flagged final practice’;

https://www.total-motorsport.com/geo...gp-qualifying/