A law firm representing Formula 1 fans has filed a class-action lawsuit against the organizers of the Las Vegas Grand Prix after a drain cover incident led to the cancellation of the first practice session. The lawsuit, filed by Dimopoulos Law Firm and co-counsel JK Legal & Consulting, seeks at least $30,000 in damages from the Las Vegas Grand Prix and its owner, Liberty Media.

On the first day of the Las Vegas Grand Prix, spectators were asked to leave the circuit due to a loose drain cover that caused damage to the Ferrari of Carlos Sainz. The incident occurred during the first practice session, which lasted only eight minutes. Teams then conducted checks on all drain covers along the 3.85-mile circuit, leading to a delay in the second practice session.

Fans, who had paid hundreds of dollars for tickets, were left waiting in their seats until the early hours of the morning, only to be asked to leave the stands due to staffing issues. As a result, they were able to witness just eight minutes of on-track action. Formula 1 has offered $200 gift vouchers to those with Thursday-only tickets, but fans with full weekend tickets have not received any compensation for the affected practice sessions.

In response to the backlash, Renee Wilm, CEO of the Las Vegas Grand Prix, and Stefano Domenicali, CEO of Formula 1, issued a joint statement expressing their understanding of the fans' disappointment. They explained that the decision was made in consideration of the safety and security of participants and the overall fan experience throughout the race weekend. They also compared the situation to other events, such as concerts and games, which may be canceled due to factors beyond control.

The class-action lawsuit aims to vindicate the rights of the fans who traveled great distances and paid significant amounts to attend the Las Vegas Grand Prix but were deprived of the full experience. The lawsuit seeks compensation of at least $30,000 from the Las Vegas Grand Prix and its owner. Formula 1's offer of $200 gift vouchers has been criticized by some fans who had expected more substantial redress.

This is not the first time Formula 1 has faced criticism for its handling of cancellations. Earlier in 2021, the Belgian Grand Prix was severely affected by rain, leading to limited on-track action. Fans at the event did not receive ticket refunds but were entered into a draw for less than 200 tickets to the following year's race. They were also offered an annual F1TV subscription and entry to a special "fan event" before the next year's race.

As the lawsuit progresses, Formula 1 and the Las Vegas Grand Prix may face further scrutiny over their compensation practices for fans who miss out on significant portions of on-track action during events.