Reigning F1 champion Max Verstappen may face a challenging weekend at the Las Vegas Grand Prix after struggling in practice sessions, with Mercedes’ W15 emerging as the car to beat. According to Red Bull adviser Helmut Marko, Verstappen has “no chance at all” of finishing in the top two, let alone winning, based on Thursday’s practice performance.
Red Bull’s Struggles in Las Vegas Practice
Despite a commanding 62-point lead over McLaren’s Lando Norris, Verstappen’s Red Bull RB20 struggled on the newly introduced Las Vegas street circuit:
- FP1 Results: Verstappen placed fifth.
- FP2 Results: He fell to 17th, citing issues with tire performance and a “draggy” rear wing.
The team reportedly loses up to six-tenths of a second on the straights, a critical weakness on the high-speed Vegas circuit.
Verstappen commented:
“We’ve struggled a lot with making the tyres work over one lap, especially. It’s like driving on ice at the moment.”
Mercedes W15 Steals the Spotlight
Mercedes showcased impressive form, with Lewis Hamilton topping both sessions and narrowly holding off Norris in FP2. Mercedes boss Toto Wolff credited the W15’s performance in low-grip and cold conditions, common challenges on the Vegas circuit.
Mercedes’ Challenges Ahead
While optimistic, Wolff remains cautious.
“We are dirty track champions. Once the grip improves, the gap we saw in FP1 may shrink.”
Mercedes has struggled with track evolution throughout 2024, raising questions about their ability to sustain performance as grip levels increase.
Marko Doubts Verstappen’s Chances
Marko has cast doubt on Verstappen’s ability to seal his fourth consecutive Drivers’ Championship with a win this weekend, saying:
“With our performance today, we have no chance at all of second place, let alone first place.”
Constructors’ Woes
Red Bull’s performance struggles could also cost them the Constructors’ Championship, where they currently sit third, 49 points behind McLaren. Sergio Perez, Verstappen’s teammate, has failed to secure a podium finish since April, exacerbating the team’s difficulties.
What lies ahead for Red Bull and Mercedes?
While Red Bull hopes for a turnaround as the track evolves, Mercedes and McLaren are poised to capitalize on their current momentum. Marko remains wary of the competition.
“Mercedes is looking really strong, but the order can still change as the track gains grip.”
McLaren’s Role
Lando Norris continues to impress, consistently challenging the frontrunners. If McLaren maintains their form, they could further disrupt Red Bull’s plans for a decisive weekend.
Key Takeaways for the Las Vegas GP
- Verstappen’s Title Hopes: While his lead is secure, a win in Vegas seems unlikely based on current form.
- Mercedes Momentum: The W15 thrives in cold, low-grip conditions, but track evolution could alter the competitive order.
- Constructors’ Battle: Red Bull’s struggles leave the door open for McLaren to solidify their lead.
The stage is set for an unpredictable Las Vegas Grand Prix, with title implications and team rivalries hanging in the balance. Will Mercedes sustain their dominance, or can Red Bull find a way to fight back? Stay tuned as the drama unfolds.
