Just a few hours, and the engines of the Formula 1 cars will roar for the Las Vegas Grand Prix. There are two points of interest for the unprecedented race on American soil: the first is undoubtedly related to the spectacle that Liberty Media and the promoters are organizing for what many consider the sports event of the year. Perhaps a slightly exaggerated definition, but one that is repeated convincingly, almost convincing us, by those who have set up a spectacle that has never been seen before in the top tier.
The other focal point, with the championships already assigned, is the duel between Mercedes and Ferrari, separated by only 20 points in the standings. A gap that, in a sort of mobile stalemate, has persisted for several races, with the two teams seemingly racing to miss good opportunities to deal a knockout blow to the other.
Certainly, this challenge fits into the novelties and uncertainties that an entirely new circuit offers. The Ferrari SF-23 could well adapt to the Las Vegas Strip Circuit—let’s state it immediately to clarify things. The characteristics of the track should enhance the qualities of the Red, which in Nevada must build a weekend up to expectations after some races marked by technical issues and tactical errors.
GP Las Vegas, Ferrari: the importance of simulations
Observing the layout of the Formula One new entry on the calendar, we immediately notice how essentially the track is composed of three long stretches at high-speed intervals by various types of curves. Identifying a valid setup in a short time will not be easy. The definition of it will depend on the technicians’ ability to work with the few available data.
The work in the simulator, where many hours have been spent in the hope of extracting important indications on the areas to emphasize for maximum competitiveness, has been crucial. Frédéric Vasseur, approaching the 21st round of the championship, has emphasized this aspect.
“As for the race, we will face a completely new circuit, and very cold conditions await us, unlike all the other events on the calendar,” explained the Frenchman. “So the work we have done at the factory, in meetings, and in the simulator will play a fundamental role in ensuring that the drivers and the car can give their best. Simulation, in fact, is of great help in managing the many uncertainties that can represent a competitive advantage, allowing drivers to focus on learning the track.”
If the engineers have done their homework well, Ferrari can exploit the specificities of the track that rises among the casinos of Nevada to its advantage. The aerodynamic load used should be medium-low, a setup that usually suits the SF-23. The asphalt is quite smooth, considering the resurfacing of areas that are usually open to urban traffic. The absence of bumps will guarantee lower ground clearances, a working range that could favor the Red.
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There is some concern about the surface layer of asphalt. The reference is to what happened last year at the Miami circuit, which underwent partial resurfacing that caused more than a headache due to the rather poor quality of the material. The organizers seem to have given adequate answers to the FIA technical delegates. Still, the teams, rightly so, do not feel at ease until they have personally tested the Nevada surface.
To avoid unpleasant surprises, the men of the Prancing Horse must take special care of the suspension aspect: it will be necessary to ensure good reactivity and great precision at the front by choosing the correct stiffness. This last aspect is one on which Ferrari must be perfect to contain understeer, an element that has negatively influenced the performance of the Italian car in the races that have been archived.
GP Las Vegas, Ferrari: the ball is in the drivers’ court
Obviously, the ball must pass to the drivers, the interpreters of a script prepared at the factory but still to be acted out. Vasseur trusts in the abilities of his men but emphasizes above all Charles Leclerc’s adaptability to such tracks: “Charles is always very fast on this type of track where you have to run close to the barriers.”
Confidence is also placed in Carlos Sainz, who, likewise, knows his way when the walls approach the wheels: “In Singapore – explained the team principal – Carlos showed that he is no less skilled in this discipline. We are convinced that we can keep up, and if we give the drivers everything they need, then a good result is within our reach.”
We will hear the words of those involved in the usual Thursday press conferences; for now, the two have limited themselves to some ancillary statements, with technical matters not at the center of their thoughts. “I’ve never been to Las Vegas,” Carlos said, “but I’ve always wanted to be there. I don’t know what to expect, except for what I’ve seen from people who have been there. I think it will be a great weekend for F1.”
On the other hand, Charles Leclerc has already attended in Nevada and can explain some feelings with firsthand knowledge: “I’ve been to Las Vegas; I expect a crazy atmosphere. I’m sure there will be a great atmosphere, as always in the United States but especially for this race.”
Ferrari must overcome unpredictability
In less than two days, the track will begin to provide the first indications. Both Ferrari and Mercedes, in their final duel, are conditioned by unpredictable cars that, in some circumstances, have not seen the work done in the simulator confirmed. Not surprisingly, Fred Vasseur made mention of it.
Among the many potentially influential variables, the one related to ambient temperatures must be taken into account since the sessions will take place practically at night. Another topic that has generated more than one controversy in an F1 reluctant to accept certain cultural changes. Frédéric Vasseur is also aware of this type of pitfall.
“Las Vegas will be tough, but I think everyone expects it to be. It will be a night race, and it will be very cold. It is a new track with a particular layout.” The French manager is not concerned about the safety of the drivers: “We trust Formula 1, and if you look at Miami in 2022, it went quite well from a racing point of view: the track was well prepared, and I hope it will be the same for Las Vegas.”
Ferrari feels it has worked well, and, at least on paper, it seems to be more advantaged than Mercedes. But it is not possible to affirm this with certainty because there are too many unpredictable elements, and the history of the two cars indicates that nothing can be taken for granted. Not even after qualifying since the SF-23 and the W14 tend to transform in the race compared to Saturday.
Source: Diego Catalano for FUnoanalisitecnica
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