The FIA has addressed a potentially hazardous situation at the Las Vegas Grand Prix by securing a loose manhole cover ahead of qualifying sessions. During the second practice on November 16, 2023, a marshal alerted race control to noticeable movement from the manhole cover located near Turn 17. This prompted the display of a red flag, allowing officials to inspect the area.
The practice session resumed approximately 15 minutes later but was halted once again due to further movement observed on the manhole cover. Ultimately, the session ended under the red flag, unable to complete its scheduled time. Following the incident, the FIA conducted thorough inspections and identified a fault in the closure mechanism of the cover.
In a statement released ahead of the final practice session, the FIA noted, “The manhole that prompted the red flag in FP2 was disassembled and further inspected. A specific fault was found with the closure mechanism, and it was possible to address this issue overnight.” To prevent any recurrence, the FIA opted to weld the cover in place and reinforced 14 other manhole assemblies around the circuit.
Previous Incidents and Safety Measures
Thursday’s disruptions served as a reminder of a similar incident during the inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix in 2021, when a valve cover came loose, causing damage to a Ferrari. That incident resulted in the early conclusion of the first practice session and delays extending into the following day for the second practice.
Loose manhole covers have been problematic at various street circuits, often due to the forces generated by Formula 1 cars designed to create low pressure that pulls them toward the track. The FIA’s swift action highlights their commitment to safety, ensuring that the circuit remains secure for both drivers and teams.
With the final practice session set to commence at 16:30 local time, all eyes will be on the track as teams prepare for qualifying, scheduled for 20:00 local time. The FIA’s proactive measures aim to ensure a smooth and safe racing experience for all participants at the Las Vegas Grand Prix.
