Hamilton Narrowly Escapes 'Very Nasty' Collision in Las Vegas P3

Lewis Hamilton of Mercedes narrowly avoided a major collision with Liam Lawson of Racing Bulls during the final practice session in Las Vegas. The incident, which could have had significant consequences, saw Hamilton react quickly to prevent what he described as a "very nasty" accident on track.

Why it matters:

Near misses, especially in tight street circuits like Las Vegas, highlight the inherent dangers of Formula 1 and the critical importance of driver awareness and effective communication from race control. Such incidents can significantly impact a team's preparation, potentially leading to costly damage, grid penalties, or even injuries, especially during the crucial final practice session before qualifying.

The details:

• The Incident: During FP3, Hamilton was on a hot lap when he encountered Lawson's slower Racing Bulls car at a blind corner. Lawson, unaware of Hamilton's rapid approach, was driving at a reduced pace, leading to a dangerous closing speed between the two cars.
• Hamilton's Reaction: Hamilton described the near-miss as requiring evasive action to prevent a direct impact, stating, "That could have been very nasty!" His quick reflexes were instrumental in averting a high-speed crash.
• Track Conditions: The Las Vegas Strip Circuit, with its high speeds and limited run-off areas, amplifies the risk of such encounters. Blind corners and varying car speeds often contribute to these situations.
• Potential Consequences: A collision at that speed would have likely resulted in significant damage to both cars, potentially ending their participation in qualifying and potentially even the race. It also raises questions about track awareness and radio communication for all drivers involved.

The big picture:

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the fine margins in Formula 1. While a near-miss is a relief, it underscores the need for constant vigilance from drivers and clear communication from their teams and race control, particularly on circuits with unique challenges like Las Vegas.

What's next:

The FIA will likely review the incident to determine if any regulations were breached and if further action or clarification regarding on-track procedures is needed. Both drivers will be aiming to put the incident behind them as they head into qualifying, focusing on optimizing their performance for the race.