The Vegas event hadn't been without controversy already. The residents had been vociferous in complaining about having streets closed for 10 days straight and all the building works for months prior (Edinburgh and Croydon feel your pain). The track then brought itself more bother during Free Practice 1 when a water valve man hole thing came loose under Sainz's car. It also ran under Ocon's car. Sainz had to have his plank changed which gave him a 10 place grid penalty. I think you could feel the waves of outrage from F1 fans across the globe.
F1 fans across the globe were geared up to play Crofty Goes to Vegas Bingo. If you'd like to play during the race the words are: Elvis ✓, The Hangover, cashing their chips, placing their bets...
During Q1 Tsunoda achieved what I felt was unachievable at a street track like this: having a lap time deleted for leaving the track. Did he run through a casino? Skim over the Belagio lake? How did he get off the track? With a huge following in the US, both McLarens were out, which will be a big hit for them. Ocon, Zhou and Tsunoda were also out with Sargeant through to a rare Q2 outing at one of his home tracks.
Teams and drivers continued to be caught out in Q2: Hamilton, Perez, Hulkenberg, Stroll and Ricciardo. Both Williams were through and both Ferraris held the front row. So far, no red flags and no safety cars - surprising.
Ferrari held on to the two fastest spots in the final session, although Sainz will start 12th, so Verstappen will start on the front row. Behind them: Gasly, Russell, Albon, Sargeant, Alonso, Magnussen and Bottas. Being the pole-sitter means your face is projected onto the roof on the top of the pit buildings.
Verstappen said he "maximised performance" today; I wonder how often he uses the phrase "maximised" about things he does.
No comments:
Post a Comment