Alonso Criticizes Las Vegas GP Track and Calendar Slot

Fernando Alonso has delivered a blunt assessment of the Las Vegas Grand Prix, branding the track surface “not Formula 1 standard” and questioning the race's late-season calendar slot after finishing 13th. The two-time champion started seventh but sustained early damage, leading to a points-less finish and strong criticism of both the circuit's asphalt and its position on the F1 calendar.

Why it matters:

Alonso's outspoken remarks highlight growing concerns within the F1 paddock regarding track quality and the grueling demands of an expanding calendar. As F1 pushes into new markets, ensuring driver safety and sustainable scheduling are paramount for the sport's long-term integrity and the well-being of its participants. His comments, coming from a veteran driver, carry significant weight and could prompt discussions at the FIA level.

The details:

• Track Surface Issues: Alonso described the Las Vegas track as 'fun' due to its high-speed nature but criticized the asphalt for being 'too slippery,' making it difficult to get tires to temperature and find grip. He also noted it was 'extremely bumpy, at the limit of being safe to race.'
• Safety Concerns: The Spaniard explicitly stated that the issue of the track surface needs to be addressed with the FIA for future years, questioning its acceptability.
• Calendar Timing: Another major point of contention for Alonso was the timing of the race. Held as a night race in late November, it kicks off a challenging triple-header with Qatar and Abu Dhabi, concluding a 24-round calendar.
• Travel Demands: Alonso emphasized the difficulty of managing significant time differences and long flights, particularly after races in Europe and Brazil, stating: "I don't think any other sport in the world will accept that." He cited a 17-hour flight and 13-hour time difference for the upcoming Qatar leg.
• Event vs. Sport: While acknowledging that the late November slot might be quiet for Las Vegas, Alonso argued that decisions should prioritize the sport first, not the venue's convenience, drawing a parallel to not racing in Monaco in February just because it's quiet.

Between the lines:

Alonso's comments reflect a broader sentiment among some drivers and teams about the physical and logistical strain of the current F1 calendar. While the sport's expansion is financially lucrative, concerns over driver welfare, the quality of new circuits, and the sustainability of travel logistics are becoming more vocal. The 'not F1 standard' track surface comment is particularly damning, suggesting fundamental issues with the circuit's construction and preparation, which could impact future events.

What's next:

Alonso's call for dialogue with the FIA regarding the track's quality and calendar placement suggests that these issues are likely to be raised in official forums. While immediate changes for the upcoming season are unlikely, these strong critiques from a respected figure like Alonso could influence future negotiations for race contracts and calendar scheduling. The FIA will likely need to evaluate the track's safety standards and consider driver feedback as the sport continues to grow globally.