F1 Rumour: Las Vegas GP Expects Further Delays For FP3 And Qualifying

The Las Vegas Grand Prix faces scheduling challenges, with FP3 and qualifying sessions likely delayed due to regulatory constraints following disruptions on the first day of the event.

Update: Formula One has now confirmed that the schedule will remain the same as planned and does not expect delays.

The Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix is facing potential delays for its third free practice (FP3) and qualifying sessions, following a disrupted first day of action. A loose water valve cover on the Las Vegas strip prematurely ended FP1 and led to a significant delay for FP2, influencing the schedule for the following day.

Key Takeaways:

• Regulatory Implications: According to the FIA's sporting regulations, FP3 cannot start until at least 18 hours after the conclusion of FP2. Given that FP2 finished at 4 am local time, FP3, initially scheduled for 8:30 pm, is now expected to start no earlier than 10 pm local time. This 90-minute delay aligns with the regulations stipulating a minimum gap between sessions.
• Qualifying Rescheduling: The delay in FP3 directly affects the qualifying session schedule. As per the regulations, qualifying should start at least two hours but no more than three hours after FP3 ends. With the revised timing of FP3, qualifying is now anticipated to commence no earlier than 1 am local time.
• Fan Experience Concerns: The delay between FP1 and FP2 forced fans to exit the circuit due to logistical reasons. This raises concerns about a similar situation occurring during the qualifying session, especially considering the late hours and potential further delays.

The first practice session in Las Vegas was abruptly cut short due to a loose water valve cover, causing the FIA to cancel the remainder of FP1 and delay FP2 by over two hours to ensure track safety. This disruption has a cascading effect on the weekend's schedule, guided by specific FIA regulations. These rules dictate the timing of sessions, particularly in events without a sprint session. For instance, FP3 must start no less than 18 hours after FP2 concludes, influencing the start time of subsequent sessions, including qualifying.

Given that FP2 finished at 4 am local time, the regulations enforce a delayed start for FP3, now expected to begin at 10 pm instead of the planned 8:30 pm. This adjustment, in turn, impacts the qualifying session, which, according to the rules, should commence at least two hours after FP3. Consequently, qualifying is now thought to start no earlier than 1 am local time.

The lengthy delay between FP1 and FP2 resulted in fans being asked to leave the circuit, a decision attributed to logistical considerations. This incident, occurring at 1:30 am, raises questions about the handling of similar delays during qualifying. The enforced gap between FP3 and qualifying is designed to provide teams and engineers sufficient time for rest, repairs, and preparation.

The unfolding situation in Las Vegas poses challenges for fans, teams, and organisers, with the adherence to regulations taking precedence. Whether an exception to these rules will be discussed or agreed upon by F1, the FIA, and the teams is yet to be determined. The focus remains on balancing the regulatory framework with the practical aspects of race weekend scheduling.