The loose manhole cover that disrupted the second practice session at the Las Vegas Grand Prix has been securely welded in place. This action was taken to prevent any recurrence during qualifying or the race on October 14, 2023. A marshal alerted the FIA’s race control after noticing movement from the manhole cover ahead of Turn 17 during Thursday’s practice, prompting the deployment of a red flag for inspection.
Following a 15-minute suspension, the practice session resumed but was halted again when further movement was detected. Ultimately, the session concluded under red flag conditions. The FIA conducted overnight inspections and identified a fault with the manhole cover’s closure mechanism. As a precaution, officials opted to weld the cover shut along with 14 other manhole assemblies situated around the circuit.
In an official statement, 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.” The organization confirmed that the welding was implemented to enhance safety measures for the Grand Prix events.
This incident has drawn parallels to a similar occurrence during the inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix two years ago when a smaller valve cover malfunctioned, damaging the underside of a Ferrari. That incident led to the early conclusion of the first practice session and a delay to the second session, which extended into the early hours of the following day.
Loose drain covers have been a recurring issue at various street circuits, primarily due to the intense forces exerted by Formula 1 cars designed to generate low pressure and enhance traction. As the racing community prepares for the final practice session, scheduled for 16:30 local time, qualifying will follow at 20:00. The FIA’s prompt response to the situation underscores its commitment to ensuring the safety of drivers and teams during the high-stakes event in Las Vegas.
