In the electrifying heart of Las Vegas, under the dazzling glow of neon lights and amidst the surreal presence of Elvis impersonators, the 2023 Las Vegas Grand Prix has the Formula One drivers buzzing with anticipation. It's not just the shimmering names above the teams' suites or the nocturnal pulse of the city that's got everyone talking, but the challenge of navigating a race that unfolds under the glittering Vegas skyline.
For George Russell, the night race is a welcome break after a relentless seven-week stretch on the road. Taking a brief stopover in the Caribbean, he shares, "December and January are busy too, so I thought I'd have a breather." As the drivers grapple with jet lag from the recent triple-header and the constant shifts in time zones, Russell sees it as an opportunity to gain a competitive edge, even in the realm of sleep.
Esteban Ocon, the Alpine F1 driver, takes a unique approach to jet lag, employing a physio who doubles as a jet-lag expert. "It's about how much effort you put in," Ocon notes, acknowledging the delicate balance between maintaining a racing schedule and spending time with loved ones.
The Vegas GP, however, didn't kick off without its share of drama. The first practice session was abruptly halted after less than nine minutes due to an incident involving Carlos Sainz's Ferrari and a loose manhole cover. The oddity of the situation sparked debates about the race's validity and the organizers' preparedness. Ferrari Team Principal Fred Vasseur expressed his dissatisfaction, calling the situation "unacceptable." On the other hand, Mercedes' Toto Wolff defended the event, passionately asserting that the mishap shouldn't overshadow the groundbreaking standards set by the race.
Despite the initial hiccups, the newly constructed paddock complex and the impressive track have left a positive impression on the drivers. Charles Leclerc, topping the second session in the early hours of the morning, praised the track's design, stating, "I like the track, it's fun to drive." Ferrari's serious pace on the straights showcased in Leclerc's performance, emphasizing the uniqueness of the Vegas GP.
Not all drivers are equally enamored, though. World Champion Max Verstappen, while acknowledging the soft tire's one-lap prowess, remains skeptical about the long run. "We have to look to see how we can improve our degradation on the long," he comments, maintaining a sense of caution even as the excitement builds in the vibrant city.
As the spectacle of the Las Vegas Grand Prix unfolds, with its mix of thrills, spills, and unexpected turns, one thing is certain: the drivers are ready for a night of high-speed drama under the neon lights of Sin City.
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