Impressive Start With Esteban Gutierrez
Do you know Esteban Gutierrez , the former Sauber and Haas driver ? You may remember him for dramatic moments like the scary crash at the 2014 Bahrain Grand Prix or the collision with Fernando Alonso at the 2016 Australian Grand Prix . However, for me, Gutierrez will always be the driver who gave me the most unforgettable racing experience of my life.
My first Pirelli Hot Lap experience didn’t start well when Free Practice 2 for the Las Vegas Grand Prix was postponed. While I was initially relieved, three hours later I returned to the Pirelli garage to find myself sitting next to Gutierrez, who has competed in 59 Grand Prix races.
Thrilling Race Track
The line-up that night was impressive, befitting Las Vegas . Former Malcolm in the Middle star Frankie Muniz was behind the wheel of a Ford Mustang , while notables like Mick Schumacher , championship contender Isack Hadjar , and Aston Martin ambassador Jess Hawkins were also in attendance. But for me, the highlight was the Tommy Hilfiger -branded Mercedes-AMG GT63 . With 600 horsepower and a 0-60 mph time of around three seconds, it promised to be an unforgettable ride.
Thrill of Driving
As I put on my helmet, the excitement was palpable. The acrid smell of hot brakes mixed with the scent of luxurious leather as I climbed into the cockpit with Gutierrez. Once he got the all-clear, we headed out onto the Las Vegas Strip . The ferocity with which he hit the gas and then braked hard into Turn 1 was nothing short of incredible.
While some drivers complained about the slippery conditions of the track, Gutierrez still pushed the car to the limit, handling sharp turns with absolute confidence.
Racing Beyond the Limits
As we approached the traffic on the track, I thought we might have to slow down. But Gutierrez had other plans. He closed in on Hawkins’ bumper and quickly passed her at Turn 8. I held my breath as I watched him, only to see a knowing smile. Clearly, the Pirelli Hot Laps riders were enjoying every moment.
Accelerate to New Heights
Exiting Turn 8 , we raced along the tram tracks, hitting 120 mph before entering Turn 12 —one of the track’s key overtaking zones. On the 1.2-mile straightaway, the thrill of racing at this speed against the dazzling backdrop of Las Vegas was unmatched. My legs were shaking, adrenaline pumping, as Gutierrez guided me through an unforgettable experience.
An Experience to Remember
As the lap ended, I realized that sitting with an F1 driver isn’t just about speed—it’s about the thrill and pure joy of pushing the limits. “I think drivers really enjoy pushing themselves to the limit,” one F1 colleague remarked. I couldn’t agree more. The experience left a lasting impression on me, one I will always cherish.
