Mercedes narrowly avoided a double pit lane start penalty at the Las Vegas Grand Prix after an 'IT security problem' prevented a crucial email, detailing car setups for George Russell and Kimi Antonelli, from reaching the FIA during qualifying. The team successfully presented evidence of their timely submission, allowing both drivers to retain their grid positions despite the administrative glitch.
Charles Leclerc was furious after qualifying ninth for the Las Vegas GP, calling it "f***ing embarrassing" over team radio. His Ferrari SF-25 also suffered an engine cut-out mid-lap. Leclerc slammed the team's persistent wet-weather struggles, a problem he claims has plagued Ferrari since 2019, hindering their competitive edge and raising concerns for future seasons.
Lando Norris secured pole for the Las Vegas Grand Prix, but his F1 title bid hinges on overcoming a critical weakness: front tire graining. McLaren and Norris have historically struggled with this issue, especially in Vegas's cold, low-grip conditions. Managing tire degradation will be crucial for the team to convert pole into victory and secure the championship, with a one-stop strategy in doubt if graining proves unmanageable.
McLaren has implemented a 'special focus' strategy to address its past struggles at the Las Vegas Grand Prix. Team Principal Andrea Stella revealed improvements in car balance, aerodynamics, and tire utilization based on lessons from previous races. Lando Norris secured pole, but Stella anticipates a 'tight and uncertain' race, emphasizing the crucial test ahead for the team's championship ambitions.
In a dazzling display of wet-weather prowess, Carlos Sainz secured P3 in Las Vegas Grand Prix qualifying, expressing a strong desire for rain on race day. His performance showcased the Williams FW47's surprising competitiveness in challenging conditions, offering a rare opportunity for the team to contend for higher points amidst the dry-weather dominance of rivals. Sainz aims to leverage his skill to hold his position against faster cars.
Charles Leclerc is deeply frustrated by Ferrari's consistent and long-standing struggles in wet Formula 1 conditions, a problem highlighted by a disappointing qualifying session at the Las Vegas Grand Prix. Despite his strong qualifying reputation, Leclerc attributes the poor wet-weather performance to the car's inherent issues, particularly with tyre warm-up and grip. With new regulations looming in 2026, Ferrari faces immense pressure to overcome this critical weakness to challenge for championships.
George Russell revealed a power steering issue in Q3 of Las Vegas GP qualifying, which he believes cost him a shot at pole position. He disagreed with Sky F1's query regarding his pre-qualifying McLaren assessment, asserting his car's strong pace in earlier sessions and the impact of the mechanical problem on his P4 finish, highlighting the tough conditions and Lando Norris's pole.
George Russell's strong performance in Las Vegas qualifying was cut short by a sudden steering issue in Q3, costing him a likely pole position and leaving him P4. Meanwhile, rookie teammate Kimi Antonelli faced an early Q1 exit due to a lock-up on a slippery track, adding to Mercedes' frustrations despite initial promising pace throughout the weekend.
Valtteri Bottas took on an unexpected role as a wedding officiant at the Las Vegas Grand Prix, marrying a couple in F1's pop-up paddock chapel. This unique event highlights Bottas's expanding persona beyond racing and F1's efforts to blend sport with entertainment, creating memorable fan experiences.
Lando Norris secured his third consecutive pole position for the Las Vegas Grand Prix and is ready for an "exciting battle" against Max Verstappen into Turn 1. With limited long-run data due to disruptions and potential wet conditions, the race is highly unpredictable, but Norris is determined to win, stating he's prepared to take risks to achieve it.
Alpine F1 team has been fined €5,000 by the FIA for a procedural breach at the Las Vegas Grand Prix. The team physically returned intermediate tires after a wet FP3 session but failed to electronically register their return, leading to the penalty. This incident highlights the FIA's strict enforcement of regulations and adds to a challenging season for driver Franco Colapinto.
Max Verstappen finished P2 in the challenging wet qualifying for the Las Vegas GP, but his calm 'It's fine like this' reaction signals Red Bull's struggle with inconsistent momentum. The team's ongoing search for an optimal setup, marked by split car geometries and practice setbacks, has lowered Verstappen's championship expectations, despite his strong track record.
