Reflecting on last weekend’s Las Vegas Grand Prix on the world famous Las Vegas strip, Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso raised concerns around the safety of the circuit due to low track temperatures leading to poor grip.
Formula 1’s inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix managed to live up to expectations, putting on an exhilarating race despite a difficult and controversial start during Friday practice. With fans impressed by the intense and close on track action, many are already looking forward to Formula 1’s return next season.
“There is a danger factor.”
Fernando Alonso however, reflecting on last weekend’s event, discussed the track conditions, highlighting the low grip levels which may be a cause for concern going forward. Alonso says the lack of grip makes the circuit dangerous, having fallen foul at turn 1 and spinning out.
Lando Norris had a big accident at turn 11 on lap 3 as well as his car bottomed out over a bump.
“It was okay. The only thing was the level of grip, which is extremely low. I know it’s the same for everybody but on a street circuit sometimes there is a danger factor. It seemed like we were running in half-dry, half-wet conditions, and on a street circuit, it’s a little bit strange.
“It is not much fun to drive on this kind of circuit, at this speed, 360 kilometres an hour with no grip, no visibility, bouncing like hell, and these kinds of things.”
The cool desert evening temperatures, which were not initially considered by the event organisers played a key role in the difficult conditions, a factor which may be exaggerated next season, with the 2024 running of the Las Vegas Grand Prix scheduled two weeks later in the year.
“These cars are not made to go through corners at 80kph.”
Alonso went on to discuss the importance of traditional Formula 1 circuits on the calendar, calling for balance between the classic circuits and modern street circuits. Despite his admission that the Las Vegas Grand Prix was “fun inside the car” he draws attention to the design philosophy of Formula 1 cars.
“I know the show from the outside may look good, but these cars are not made to go through corners at 80kph. These cars are made to go in Suzuka, Barcelona, at Silverstone, and to maximise Formula 1’s potential.
“So we need to balance the championship, balance the calendar. I think that’s what we are doing, but I don’t think this is the only way to go. We need to keep some traditional races as well, where a Formula 1 car can shine.”
