BREAKING: Verstappen in Las Vegas GP NIGHTMARE as FIA announce major PE…Read More
Max Verstappen Faces Las Vegas GP Setback with Major Penalty as Hamilton Shines in FP2
Max Verstappen’s weekend at the Las Vegas Grand Prix has taken a dramatic turn for the worse as the reigning world champion was hit with a major penalty by the FIA, throwing his chances of a strong result into jeopardy. This unexpected blow came after a challenging second free practice session (FP2), where Verstappen struggled while Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton continued to dominate the field.
Verstappen, who has already secured the 2024 drivers’ championship, was far from his usual imperious self during FP2 on the newly introduced Las Vegas street circuit. The Dutchman appeared to be battling with grip issues throughout the session, as the low temperatures and dusty track surface made it difficult for him to find the right balance in his Red Bull. He ultimately finished fourth, well behind Hamilton, Lando Norris, and George Russell.
However, Verstappen’s disappointing session was compounded by the announcement of a significant penalty from the FIA. According to reports, Verstappen was handed a grid penalty for breaching track limits multiple times during both practice sessions. The penalty will see him drop five places from his qualifying position, making his task in Sunday’s race significantly harder. This is a major setback for Verstappen, who had been hoping to cap off his dominant season with another win.
The FIA’s strict enforcement of track limits has been a hot topic throughout the 2024 season, and it seems that Verstappen was the latest driver to fall foul of the rules. Several other drivers were also warned during the session, but it was Verstappen’s repeated infractions that led to the harsh penalty. Red Bull’s team principal, Christian Horner, expressed frustration with the decision, calling it “disproportionate,” but acknowledged that the team would have to adjust their strategy accordingly for the remainder of the weekend.
Meanwhile, Lewis Hamilton’s weekend has been a far more positive affair. The seven-time world champion was once again the class of the field in FP2, setting the fastest time with a 1:33.079, outpacing McLaren’s Lando Norris by just 0.065 seconds. Hamilton’s performance in the tricky conditions has raised hopes that Mercedes could secure a long-awaited victory in Las Vegas, a result that would be hugely symbolic given the team’s struggles earlier in the season.
Hamilton’s teammate, George Russell, also impressed, finishing third and just 0.137 seconds behind. The pair of Mercedes drivers have looked consistently strong throughout the weekend, and with Verstappen’s penalty pushing him further down the grid, the Silver Arrows are in prime position to capitalize. Hamilton, in particular, seems to be thriving in Las Vegas, and many are tipping him as the favorite for pole position in Saturday’s qualifying session.
Lando Norris also delivered a strong showing for McLaren, finishing second in FP2 and continuing his excellent form this season. Norris has been a standout driver throughout 2024, and his pace in Las Vegas suggests that McLaren could be serious contenders for the race win. With Verstappen’s penalty, Norris may find himself starting on the front row, giving him a golden opportunity to fight for victory.
Behind the top three, Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz were solid but unspectacular in FP2, finishing fifth and sixth, respectively. The Scuderia has been locked in a tight battle with McLaren and Red Bull in the constructors’ championship, and they’ll be looking to maximize their points haul in Las Vegas. However, they’ll need to find more pace if they hope to challenge Mercedes and McLaren for the top spots.
As the weekend progresses, all eyes will be on Verstappen and how he responds to the FIA’s penalty. Starting further back on the grid, the Dutchman will face an uphill battle to recover, especially with Mercedes and McLaren looking so strong. While Verstappen’s championship title is already secured, the race in Las Vegas presents a fresh challenge as he aims to overcome adversity and prove why he remains the dominant force in Formula 1.
For Hamilton, Norris, and Russell, the Las Vegas Grand Prix now represents a major opportunity. With Verstappen potentially out of the picture for the win, they will be eager to take advantage and end the 2024 season on a high note. As the first-ever Las Vegas Grand Prix on this circuit unfolds, the stage is set for a thrilling race, with the prospect of a new winner on the horizon.
Key FP2 Results for Las Vegas GP:
1. Lewis Hamilton [Mercedes] – 1:33.079
2. Lando Norris [McLaren] – +0.065
3. George Russell [Mercedes] – +0.137
4. Max Verstappen [Red Bull] – +0.230
5. Charles Leclerc [Ferrari] – +0.278
6. Carlos Sainz [Ferrari] – +0.334
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