The return of Formula 1 to Las Vegas gave a unique show on the famous Strip, but the first two sessions of free tests on Thursday turned out to be more complicated than expected for Carlos Sainz and Ferrari. The Spaniard closed the day with the fourth time: a promising result, but one that hides several pitfalls linked to the track conditions and the behaviour of the single-seater.
A treacherous path
“Today's in Las Vegas it was a complicated thursday, mainly due to the track conditions" Sainz explained at the end of the FP2. As seen last year, the asphalt of the street circuit presented itself with very little grip, especially in the first laps, requiring great attention from the drivers. “The machine gave us strange sensations e we struggled to find the right feeling". THE very low temperatures for Nevada (with only 16 degrees on the asphalt) have in fact aggravated the problem and the graining on the tyres.
Adaptations between FP1 and FP2
Despite initial difficulties, Ferrari tried some changes between the first and second session to improve the behavior of the SF-24. “We tested something different in the second session, but we are still not completely satisfied. – admitted the Spaniard – There is still a lot to do to best prepare ourselves for the qualifications”.
The analysis of the data collected during the night will be fundamental to identify the main areas of improvement, in particular to improve the setup and optimise tyre management, trying above all to bring the tires up to temperature as quickly as possible (one of Ferrari's Achilles heels this year).
Positive signals on race pace and qualification objectives
If the single lap remains an unknown, the race pace seems to give some hope. Sainz showed good consistency in the long run simulations, even competition remains fierce, as has often happened in 2024. “Our race pace wasn't bad, but we still need to take a step forward to be truly competitive" he pointed out. Mercedes and McLaren, in particular, they seem to be in great shape, with Lewis Hamilton leading both sessions.
With the grid still to be defined, Ferrari's work will focus on improving the balance of the car and preparing the tyres for the fastest lap. “We hope that the analysis will help us to present ourselves tomorrow in better shape” concluded number 55. In Maranello they are aware of the challenges that this new street circuit presents, but there is confidence that they can compete at the highest levels.
