Las Vegas GP FP2 Halted by Mysterious Red Flag, Norris Leads

The second practice session of the Las Vegas Grand Prix was interrupted by a red flag with over 20 minutes left, despite no crash or debris reported. Lando Norris, who had just noted a few drops of rain, led the session before the halt, which the FIA attributed to a possible loose rain cover.

Why it matters:

The Las Vegas Grand Prix, a highly anticipated new addition to the F1 calendar, has already faced its share of organizational and on-track challenges. An unexplained red flag during a crucial practice session, especially one potentially caused by a 'loose rain cover,' raises questions about track readiness and operational oversight. Such disruptions can significantly impact team preparations and driver confidence, particularly on a brand-new street circuit where track time is paramount.

The details:

• Unexplained Red Flag: The FP2 session was unexpectedly red-flagged with more than 20 minutes remaining, initially without a clear reason.
• Norris's Observation: McLaren driver Lando Norris reported 'a few drops of rain' just before the red flag was deployed.
• FIA Explanation: The official reason given for the red flag was a 'possible loose rain cover,' rather than a crash or track debris.
• Session Leader: Prior to the interruption, Lando Norris topped the timing sheets with a time of 1:33.60.
• Top Three: Kimi Antonelli and Charles Leclerc followed Norris in second and third place, respectively.
• Track Conditions: The session had already experienced brief periods of rain before its commencement, adding to the unpredictable nature of the conditions.

The big picture:

The Las Vegas Grand Prix has been a spectacle from the start, but not without its hitches. Early issues with drain covers in FP1 caused significant delays and frustration among teams and drivers. This latest red flag, even if minor, adds to the narrative of a new event finding its footing. The pressure is on for organizers to ensure smooth running for the remainder of the weekend, especially with the high stakes and global attention surrounding the event's debut.

What's next:

Teams will be keen to maximize any remaining track time to gather crucial data on the challenging Las Vegas street circuit. The focus will be on understanding tire degradation, car setup, and adapting to the unique conditions, especially with the potential for more rain. Ensuring the track infrastructure is secure and fully functional will be a top priority for the FIA and local organizers to prevent further disruptions as the weekend progresses towards qualifying and the main race.