Alonso Criticizes Vegas GP: 'Not F1 Standard' Track and Calendar Slot

Two-time World Champion Fernando Alonso harshly criticized the Las Vegas Grand Prix, calling the track surface "not Formula 1 standard" due to its slipperiness and extreme bumps, which he deemed borderline unsafe. Alonso also slammed the event's calendar placement, citing the brutal logistics of time differences and extensive travel as unsustainable for teams and drivers, concluding that the sport's priorities are misplaced.

Why it matters:

Fernando Alonso's scathing critique of the Las Vegas Grand Prix highlights significant concerns regarding safety, track quality, and logistical strain on Formula 1 personnel. His comments, coming from a veteran driver, challenge the sport's drive for spectacle over fundamental racing standards and team well-being, potentially prompting an urgent review by the FIA and F1 management.

The Details:

• Track Surface Issues: Alonso described the newly laid asphalt as "too slippery" and "extremely bumpy," making it difficult to get tires up to temperature and impacting overall grip. He stated these conditions were "at the limit of being safe to race."
• FIA Review Urged: The Spaniard explicitly called for discussions with the FIA (Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile) to determine if such track conditions are acceptable for future races.
• Calendar Logistics: Alonso criticized the late November slot, which creates a demanding triple-header—Vegas, then Qatar, then Abu Dhabi—following a busy season. He pointed out the significant time differences and long travel hours, such as a 17-hour flight and 13-hour time difference from previous races, as "difficult for us."
• Unacceptable Demands: He argued that "no other sport in the world will accept that" level of logistical challenge, emphasizing the toll it takes on teams and drivers.
• Misplaced Priorities: When asked if a date change would solve the problem, Alonso suggested that F1's decision to schedule the race in November was driven by Vegas's "quiet weekend of the year" rather than the sport's best interests. He stated, "there are certain things that we need to think about the sport first."

Between the lines:

Alonso's outspoken criticism cuts through the glitz and glamour surrounding the Las Vegas Grand Prix, bringing to light the practical realities faced by drivers and teams. While the event was heavily promoted for its spectacle, his comments underscore a potential disconnect between commercial ambition and the core integrity and safety standards of Formula 1 racing. This isn't just a driver complaining; it's a veteran calling for a return to prioritizing the fundamentals of the sport.

What's next:

Alonso's remarks are likely to fuel discussions among drivers, teams, and the FIA regarding future Grand Prix planning, especially for new or high-profile events. The FIA will face pressure to review track safety standards and the overall feasibility of the F1 calendar, potentially leading to adjustments in future Las Vegas GP scheduling or track surface specifications. His clear message that "we need to think about the sport first" could influence how F1 balances entertainment value with operational realities moving forward.