McLaren Lacks Crucial Long-Run Data Amidst Disruptive Las Vegas GP Practice
McLaren's preparations for the Las Vegas Grand Prix were severely hampered by disruptive practice sessions, leaving team principal Andrea Stella concerned about the lack of crucial long-run data. Unpredictable track conditions and red flags meant the team couldn't gather essential information to optimize their car's setup on a circuit that already presents challenges for their vehicle's characteristics. This data deficit could significantly impact their performance as they race against time to adapt.
McLaren team principal Andrea Stella has revealed the team is "missing" crucial long-run data after a chaotic start to the Las Vegas Grand Prix weekend, raising concerns about their car's setup for the unique circuit.
Why it matters:
McLaren's struggle to gather essential data in Las Vegas highlights the impact of unpredictable track conditions and unexpected disruptions on team preparations. With a circuit that doesn't naturally suit their car's characteristics, the lack of data could significantly hinder their performance, making it harder to find the optimal setup needed to compete at the sharp end of the grid.
The details:
- Unrepresentative Sessions: Both Free Practice 1 and 2 in Las Vegas were largely unrepresentative due to challenging track conditions. Drivers encountered a dusty and slippery surface initially, followed by light rain before FP2, making the track incredibly slick once again.
- Data Deficit: The tricky conditions prevented teams from gathering accurate long-run data, which is vital for understanding tire degradation and race pace. Short-run data for qualifying simulations was also compromised.
- Red Flags: FP2 was further disrupted by two red flags in the final 20 minutes, both triggered by a loose manhole cover. This curtailed valuable track time for all teams.
- Norris's Pace Amid Challenges: Despite the disruptions, Lando Norris ended the opening day fastest, although no true qualifying simulation laps were set on soft tires. However, his car appeared unsettled, with Norris having several close calls with the walls.
- Setup Struggles: Andrea Stella confirmed that McLaren still needs to find the right car setup, acknowledging that the unique characteristics of the Las Vegas circuit and current conditions are not ideal for their car.
What's next:
McLaren faces an uphill battle to fine-tune their car ahead of qualifying and the race. The team will need to maximize the remaining practice sessions to gather as much data as possible and make swift adjustments. Their ability to adapt quickly to these challenging circumstances will be critical in determining their competitiveness at the inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix, especially given the circuit's inherent unsuitability for their car's current setup.