The organization behind the Las Vegas Grand Prix has modified all manhole covers on the street circuit to prevent a repeat of the disappointing first free practice of 2023. Some manhole covers have been asphalted by the organization, while others have been reinforced with a wider and heavier anchoring block.
The Las Vegas Grand Prix weekend had barely started last year when the first free practice was already halted. Carlos Sainz drove over a dislodged manhole cover during the first kilometers on the street circuit. The Spaniard’s Ferrari vehicle suffered significant damage from the incident. Sainz even had to accept a ten-place grid penalty because the repairs to his vehicle did not fall under the parc fermé rules.
To prevent a similar incident this year, the race organization in the desert city has taken extra measures. Motorsport.com reports that asphalt has been laid over some manhole covers, while other covers are supposed to stay in place with a heavier anchoring block. The organization could not asphalt all manhole covers because the race is partly run on public roads. Therefore, the city of Las Vegas must still be able to drain water through the sewer system.
Sainz is Confident
Carlos Sainz is confident that the organization has learned from last year’s incident. “After what happened last year, I hope everything is resolved this year,” the Spaniard told the media present in Las Vegas. “I think it will be much better for the race and for everyone, and of course for all drivers, for safety. That is certainly my greatest hope.
