P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Vegas GP fans offered F1 merchandise vouchers after being sent home
The F1 race in Las Vegas experienced a chaotic start when Carlos Sainz’s Ferrari collided with a loose water valve cover during FP1, resulting in significant damage. The session had to be abandoned as workers had to remove and fix all 30 covers around the circuit, causing a delay of 2 hours and 30 minutes for FP2. By the time the second practice began, fans and hospitality guests were already removed from the event due to logistical and labor law restrictions. F1 and the Las Vegas Grand Prix issued statements explaining the situation, however, instead of offering an apology or refund, single-day ticket holders who only witnessed eight minutes of practice were given $200 vouchers for the event’s online merchandise store. The decision to close the fan zones before FP2 was made with the priority of ensuring safety and security for all participants, but it disappointed many fans. The Las Vegas Grand Prix CEO cited concerns about public safety officials, transportation employees, and the need to clean and resupply guest areas as reasons for asking fans to leave. She expressed hope that fans would understand the difficult choices made and the various interests that had to be balanced.
