FIA Takes Action in Las Vegas to Prevent Further Manhole Disruptions

The FIA has taken swift action in Las Vegas to prevent a repeat of the manhole cover incident that halted FP2, with inspections and additional welding performed on numerous covers. This proactive approach aims to ensure the integrity of the track and prevent any further disruptions.

Why it matters:

After the inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix in 2023 was marred by a loose manhole cover incident that severely disrupted practice sessions, the FIA's immediate and decisive response to a similar issue in FP2 demonstrates a commitment to operational excellence and driver safety. Ensuring a smooth race weekend without unexpected delays is crucial for the sport's reputation, fan experience, and the significant investments made by Formula 1 and the Las Vegas organizers.

The details:

• During Friday's FP2 session, a loose manhole cover prompted a red flag, bringing the session to a halt near the 20-minute mark.
• This incident echoed the challenges faced during the 2023 Las Vegas GP, where a similar issue caused significant disruption.
• FIA's Immediate Action: Following the FP2 incident, the manhole cover in question was disassembled and inspected.
  • A specific fault was identified in its closure mechanism, which was subsequently addressed overnight.
  • The cover was also welded to provide additional security and mitigate future issues.
• Extensive Checks: The FIA didn't stop at just the problematic cover.
  • All other manhole covers on or close to the racing line were reinspected overnight.
  • Additional welding was applied to a further 14 manhole assemblies to prevent any similar problems.

The big picture:

The Las Vegas Grand Prix circuit, a temporary street course, presents unique challenges, particularly with infrastructure elements like manhole covers. The FIA's proactive response highlights the ongoing learning curve and continuous improvement efforts required for such high-profile events. This quick resolution helps to build confidence in the event's organization and ensures that the focus remains on the racing itself, rather than external factors.

What's next:

With these measures in place, the FIA is confident that similar manhole-related disruptions will not impact the remainder of the race weekend. This swift action allows teams and drivers to concentrate on qualifying and the race, maximizing track time and competitive opportunities without the threat of infrastructure failures. The success of these preventative measures will be a key indicator of the event's logistical improvements.