Ferrari’s Wet Adventure Carlos Sainz Encounters Water Valve Trouble in Las Vegas F1 Grand Prix
Disputes arose at the $500 million Las Vegas Grand Prix as Carlos Sainz Jr.’s Ferrari collided with a water valve cover, causing substantial damage during a practice session. The FIA ordered all vehicles off the track for an 11-minute inspection after Sainz’s collision with the cover’s concrete structure. The subsequent practice was postponed, and Ferrari’s CEO, Fred Vasseur, announced Sainz’s exclusion, deeming the incident “just unacceptable.” Ferrari faced discussions with Formula One stewards regarding potential fines due to the extensive repairs, involving the replacement of the complete chassis and other components. Spectator videos showed sparks flying from Sainz’s damaged Ferrari, prompting concerns. Vasseur expressed frustration at the significant financial impact and deemed it unacceptable for F1.
The incident led to debates about the event’s implications for Formula One’s debut in Las Vegas, with Toto Wolff of Mercedes dismissing it as a non-issue and F1 Las Vegas attributing the problem to a failed water valve cover. The second practice, scheduled for midnight, was delayed until 2 am local time, with collaborative efforts from F1, FIA, and local engineers to resolve the issue. The anticipated return of Formula One to Las Vegas faced initial challenges, including high ticket prices, exorbitant hotel costs, and local disruptions caused by circuit construction.
