Oliver Bearman 'Shocked' by Las Vegas Grip Issues, Calls Track 'Dangerous'

Haas driver Oliver Bearman expressed his shock and concern over the extremely low grip levels at the Las Vegas Strip Circuit, describing the high-speed street track as "dangerous" given its proximity to the walls. Bearman, who finished P16 in FP1 and P17 in FP2, highlighted the significant track evolution and unique challenges posed by the temporary circuit.

Why it matters:

Formula 1's venture into Las Vegas is designed to be a spectacle, but driver safety and the quality of racing are paramount. Bearman's strong critique from a rookie's perspective — particularly concerning grip and danger — raises questions about the track's suitability for F1 cars and could influence future circuit designs or modifications. Ensuring a balance between high-speed excitement and driver safety is crucial for the sport's credibility.

The Details:

• Low Grip Levels: Bearman was "shocked" by the initial lack of grip in FP1, calling it "sketchy" and the "least enjoyable street track" he has driven.
• Track Evolution: He noted the "incredibly high" track evolution, where lap times can improve by several tenths simply due to rubber being laid down. This dynamic made it challenging to gauge performance, as he found himself significantly further from the frontrunners after boxing due to others' improved times.
• Dangerous Combination: Bearman specifically criticized the combination of "really, really low grip" with "incredibly high speed" and walls "very close," deeming it a dangerous scenario for drivers.
• Circuit Comparison: Unlike other street circuits like Jeddah and Baku, which he usually enjoys, Bearman found Las Vegas less thrilling to drive from a technical standpoint.
• Session Challenges: FP2 was particularly tricky due to intermittent rain, traffic, and various interruptions, which further complicated finding rhythm and optimizing performance.

Between the lines:

Bearman's comments echo sentiments from some other drivers who have expressed mixed feelings about the Las Vegas track's technical characteristics, often prioritizing the spectacle over the driving experience. While the event aims for a high entertainment value, the underlying safety and enjoyment from a driver's perspective are critical for long-term success. His candid remarks highlight the unique challenges faced by drivers adapting to a purpose-built temporary circuit that is heavily affected by everyday road use.

What's next:

Teams and drivers will continue to grapple with the evolving grip levels and unique demands of the Las Vegas track throughout the weekend. Resolving the initial safety and performance concerns will be key for the event's perception. Further track evolution is expected, which may alleviate some of the grip issues, but the inherent characteristics of the circuit — high speed, close walls, and low initial grip — will remain a significant factor for drivers to manage.