Las Vegas Grand Prix Ends with Thrilling Finish Amidst Mixed Reactions
ICARO Media Group
The highly anticipated Las Vegas Grand Prix weekend concluded on a high note with an exhilarating race that left Formula 1 fans on the edge of their seats. Max Verstappen of team Red Bull emerged victorious, clinching first place in the nail-biting competition. Ferrari's Charles Leclerc secured second position after a stunning overtake of Verstappen's teammate, Sergio Pérez, in the final lap.
However, the excitement of the race was not without its setbacks and controversies. Prior to the race, attendees were subjected to a lengthy delay caused by technical issues with the course. As a result, some fans took legal action in a class-action lawsuit against the racing organization. The lawsuit, which seeks at least $30,000 in damages, targeted the Las Vegas Grand Prix and its owner, Liberty Media.
One of the most surprising incidents of the race weekend occurred during the first practice session when Carlos Sainz Jr. of Ferrari collided with a water valve cover, causing severe damage to his car. The organizers were forced to halt the practice session, undertaking immediate repairs by removing all water valve covers and filling in the resulting holes with sand and asphalt.
While the return of Formula 1 to Las Vegas was hailed by many as a boost to the sport's popularity in the United States and an economic boon to the local area, there were dissenting voices among residents who criticized the disruptions caused by the event. Traffic congestion and race-related construction led to complaints from both residents and business owners alike.
Even some F1 drivers expressed their dissatisfaction with the grand prix organizers. Lewis Hamilton, a seven-time world champion and driver for Mercedes, voiced his concerns, stating that Formula 1 should not be solely focused on glamour and spectacle, but should prioritize the sport itself. Max Verstappen, the reigning champion, also echoed these sentiments, suggesting that the Las Vegas event emphasized showmanship over the essence of the sport.
Formula 1 took steps to mitigate the inconvenience suffered by attendees during the technical delay on Thursday. Those holding single-day tickets were given a $200 voucher for the Las Vegas Grand Prix gift shop, while three-day pass holders received no compensation.
As the dust settles on the Las Vegas Grand Prix, attention now turns to the final race of the season, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, scheduled for next Sunday. Spectators and Formula 1 enthusiasts eagerly anticipate another thrilling encounter on the track as the season draws to a close.