Las Vegas GP Takeaways

Image: Getty Images

The Las Vegas Grand Prix was a spectacle that left Formula 1 fans buzzing with excitement. The race was filled with thrilling incidents, unexpected turns of events, and remarkable performances. Here are five key takeaways from the Las Vegas Grand Prix, analyzing the highs and lows of the event that had the racing world talking. 

Ferrari's Tire Management Triumph 

Ferrari's 2023 season had been plagued by tire degradation issues, often leaving them at a disadvantage against their rivals. However, in Las Vegas, it was a different story. Charles Leclerc, the talented Ferrari driver, showcased exceptional tire management skills. Leclerc extended his stint on the medium tires and even overtook Max Verstappen on track, as the Red Bull struggled with significant tire graining. Although the race was fraught with uncertainties, Leclerc's performance hinted at a potential victory if circumstances had played out differently. Ferrari now stands just four points behind Mercedes in the constructor's championship, setting the stage for an intense battle in the final race of the season. 

Read More: Verstappen Wins Las Vegas GP

Leclerc's Masterful Race 

Charles Leclerc's performance in Las Vegas was nothing short of outstanding. Starting from pole position, he led after the first lap and managed to keep pace with Max Verstappen, preventing the Dutchman from pulling away. Leclerc's final-lap overtake on Sergio Perez was a spectacle in itself, showcasing the track's overtaking opportunities. Leclerc's strong performance earned him a well-deserved "green box" in our analysis, underlining his potential as a future world champion. 

Image: F1 Media

  A Race Defined by Strategy and Incidents 

The Las Vegas Grand Prix was marked by its strategic complexities and unpredictable incidents. The chaotic race kicked off with a first-corner incident, resulting in several cars spinning out. This incident further mixed up the grid, resembling a reverse grid scenario. Safety car deployments played a crucial role in determining the race outcome, leading to variations in tire strategies. Drivers who opted for early pit stops gained an advantage, and Sergio Perez's charge to the front was a testament to this. The combination of tire management challenges and overtaking opportunities made for an exhilarating race. 

  

Verstappen's Bold Move and Controversy 

Max Verstappen's race started with a bold move into turn one, as he aggressively dived down the inside of Charles Leclerc. While the move was opportunistic, Verstappen forced Leclerc off the track, resulting in controversy. Verstappen's failure to immediately hand back the position to Leclerc after going off track drew criticism. Ultimately, Verstappen's victory was tainted by the incident and a subsequent 5-second penalty. While he showcased his racing prowess, his aggressive tactics raised questions about sportsmanship in Formula 1, earning him an "amber box." 

Read More: Disaster Opening for Vegas GP

Organizational Hiccups 

Hosting the first race in Las Vegas was a significant endeavor for Formula 1. However, the event had its share of organizational challenges. The weekend began on a sour note with a brief FP1 session due to a drain cover issue that damaged Carlos Sainz's Ferrari. The subsequent delay in FP2 left fans waiting for hours, only to be asked to leave the circuit late at night. This decision left ticket holders disappointed, and while they were offered $200 in credit for the fan store, it felt inadequate. Formula 1's organizers faced criticism for not anticipating and managing these issues better, earning them a "red box." 

The Las Vegas Grand Prix offered a thrilling spectacle under the lights, with dramatic incidents and strategic battles. Ferrari's resurgence in tire management, Charles Leclerc's impressive race, Max Verstappen's controversial tactics, and organizational hiccups all played pivotal roles in defining this race. While the event had its highs and lows, it undoubtedly left fans eager for more. As Formula 1 continues its Las Vegas adventure, organizers will need to learn from these challenges to ensure future success.