Fernando Alonso Voices Concerns About the Las Vegas Grand Prix

Fernando Alonso, the renowned Spanish driver for Aston Martin, has recently expressed his reservations about the Las Vegas Grand Prix, which took place on Sunday, November 22. The seasoned racer emphasized that while the circuit offers an exciting and fast-paced experience, the overall conditions during the race weekend left much to be desired. Alonso pointed out significant issues regarding track grip and safety, which he believes do not meet the standards expected in Formula 1 racing.

Challenges of the Las Vegas Circuit

Alonso remarked on the thrilling nature of the Las Vegas circuit, noting that its high-speed characteristics make it an entertaining venue for drivers and fans alike. However, he was quick to highlight that the type of asphalt used on the track falls short of Formula 1 standards. He stated, "The circuit is enjoyable because it is high-speed, but I believe the asphalt quality does not align with what we expect in F1." His concerns were rooted in the excessive sliding experienced by drivers throughout the race, which he deemed unacceptable.

The level of grip, or lack thereof, on the track was a particular point of contention for Alonso. He explained that the slippery conditions made it difficult for drivers to heat their tires adequately, leading to a lack of traction that compromised their performance. "It’s extremely slippery, and we struggle to get the tires up to the right temperature. The grip is minimal, and the surface is very uneven, bordering on unsafe for racing," he added, emphasizing the risk involved in navigating such challenging conditions.

The Need for Dialogue with the FIA

Alonso’s critical stance did not stop at the circuit conditions; he also called for a serious discussion with the FIA (Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile) regarding the track’s suitability for future races. "I believe we need to have a conversation with the FIA about whether these conditions are acceptable moving forward," he stated. His proactive approach highlights the importance of safety in motorsports and the responsibility of governing bodies to ensure that race tracks adhere to certain safety and performance standards.

Logistical Concerns About the Race Calendar

In addition to his critiques of the Las Vegas circuit, Alonso addressed the logistical challenges posed by the F1 calendar, particularly the recent triple-header format. He pointed out the difficulties teams face when traveling from Las Vegas to Qatar, a journey that spans over 8,000 miles. "To be completely honest, the timing in the calendar is quite challenging for us," Alonso remarked. He highlighted the complications arising from the significant time zone differences and the physical distance from Europe and Brazil, where the previous race took place just weeks earlier.

Alonso elaborated on the logistical strain, noting, "Coming here with the time zone changes and the distance from Europe and Brazil, which was just two weeks ago, and now heading straight to Qatar, that’s a 17-hour flight with a 13-hour time difference." He expressed skepticism about whether any other sport would tolerate such demanding travel arrangements, underscoring the unique challenges faced by F1 teams.

Upcoming Qatar Grand Prix

The Qatar Grand Prix is set to be the penultimate race of the 2025 F1 calendar, scheduled to occur from November 28 to November 30. As Alonso and other teams prepare for this significant event, the discussions surrounding the Las Vegas circuit and the broader logistical issues within the racing calendar will likely continue to be a focal point for drivers, teams, and officials alike.

In conclusion, Fernando Alonso’s candid remarks about the Las Vegas Grand Prix reflect the broader concerns within the Formula 1 community regarding track safety and the impact of travel logistics on team performance. His willingness to address these issues highlights the ongoing commitment of drivers to ensure that the sport remains both exciting and safe for all participants. As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see how these discussions influence future races and the overall structure of the F1 calendar.