Verstappen Claims Second Las Vegas Grand Prix Amidst Driver Reflections

Max Verstappen secured his second victory at the Las Vegas Grand Prix, a win he described as comfortable despite initial uncertainty about tire performance. Lando Norris admitted to a mistake at Turn 1, while George Russell battled a recurring steering issue and tire degradation, ultimately securing a hard-fought third place.

Why it matters:

Verstappen's dominant performance highlights Red Bull's continued strength, even in challenging conditions, and reinforces his title aspirations. For McLaren and Mercedes, despite podium finishes, the race underscored persistent car issues and the uphill battle against Red Bull's pace. The drivers' candid reflections on the balance between 'sport' and 'show' in F1's most glamorous race also offer insight into the evolving nature of the Grand Prix calendar.

The Details:

• Verstappen's Command: Max Verstappen found a strong rhythm, managing his tires effectively to split the race in half. He reported the car was "much more to my liking," allowing him to push more and maintain a comfortable lead.
• Norris's Misstep: Lando Norris acknowledged braking too late into Turn 1, calling it his "f-up" but noted that even without the mistake, McLaren lacked the pace to challenge Verstappen. He expressed disappointment but remained optimistic about the team's progress.
• Russell's Struggle: George Russell battled a recurring steering issue that began in practice and persisted throughout the race. An aggressive push early in his second stint to challenge Verstappen ultimately damaged his tires, making the final laps difficult.
• Car Consistency: Russell contrasted Mercedes' 2024 car with last year's, highlighting improved consistency over the season despite fewer "highlight moments." He emphasized the goal of maximizing points across the season.
• Tyre Management: All drivers, especially Verstappen, spoke about the challenge of understanding and managing tire degradation on the slippery Las Vegas street circuit, a key factor in race strategy and performance.
• Sport vs. Show Debate: Drivers weighed in on the Las Vegas Grand Prix's blend of sport and spectacle. While acknowledging improvements since its debut, Russell suggested a standalone race might alleviate time zone challenges. Verstappen preferred less 'showman' elements, and Norris advocated for warmer weather to enhance the fan and driver experience.

What's next:

Verstappen continues to focus on winning individual races, rather than the championship, aiming to maximize performance in the remaining two Grands Prix and one Sprint. Norris, despite his disappointment, maintains a strong lead in the championship and looks forward to Qatar, hoping for better results. The discussions around the Las Vegas circuit's timing and 'show' elements suggest potential adjustments for future editions as F1 continues to refine its calendar and event experience.