Issue with drain cover halts practice session

The first practice session for the Las Vegas Grand Prix was brought to a halt after just eight minutes due to a failed drain cover on the track. Carlos Sainz's Ferrari went up in sparks as he was driving at 200mph when the issue arose. The session was promptly cancelled.

Safety risk forces race director to stop the race

Race Director Niels Wittich made the decision to stop the race immediately, citing a safety risk posed by potentially unsafe drain covers being sucked up from the downforce of the cars. The circuit, which is the second longest on the calendar, will need to address this issue before future races can take place.

Another setback for F1's owners

This incident comes as a blow to F1's owners, Liberty Media, who have already spent close to $1 billion on their pet project. The Las Vegas Grand Prix was supposed to be a showpiece event targeted at high-rollers, with some tickets costing as much as $150,000. However, this latest setback raises questions about the future success of the event.

Frustration from fans and locals

Fans in the grandstands booed as the race was cancelled, showing their disappointment with the situation. Local residents have also voiced their frustration, citing traffic issues caused by the building work for the race. Taxi drivers have lost business, landmarks have been boarded up, and restaurateurs have experienced cancellations.

A history of problems for F1 in the US

This is not the first time Formula One has faced challenges in the United States. Previous races in Vegas and Indianapolis were marred by issues such as poor track conditions and safety concerns. These incidents highlight the need for F1 to address these issues in order to gain popularity and success in the American market.

Damage to F1's reputation and share price

The cancellation of the Las Vegas Grand Prix practice session is likely to have a negative impact on F1's reputation and share price. The incident raises questions about F1's ability to ensure the safety of its drivers and the success of its events. F1's owners will need to address these concerns and take steps to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Conclusion

The failed drain cover during the Las Vegas GP practice session has caused disappointment among fans and frustration among locals. This incident highlights the need for F1 to prioritize safety and address any potential issues before hosting races. As F1's owners continue to invest in their pet project, they must ensure that the events live up to the high expectations set by fans and stakeholders.