After the Las Vegas Grand Prix, Fernando Alonso sharply criticized several key aspects of the Nevada event. According to the Aston Martin driver, the track surface does not meet Formula 1 standards, and the time zones of the season’s final triple-header, as well as the event’s position on the calendar, are unacceptable.
The newer generations of drivers – with a few exceptions – are increasingly media-trained and more “polished” in their communication. However, this often leads to a lack of personality, which over time can impact the championship’s overall appeal.
In Formula 1, some drivers still maintain a strong personality in front of the cameras. Fernando Alonso is undoubtedly one of them – an old-school champion who remains a reference point on track (only the car limits him) and off track in front of the microphones.
Fernando Alonso has always been willing to speak his mind, and this trait was once again evident at the conclusion of the Las Vegas Grand Prix.
The Aston Martin driver targeted the Sin City circuit’s asphalt, the scheduling of the event in the F1 calendar, and the management of time zones during the season’s final triple-header – Las Vegas, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi.
“The track is fun because it’s high-speed, but I think the asphalt is not up to the standards required by Formula 1,” Fernando Alonso said immediately, without hesitation.
“To be honest, it’s too slippery and it’s impossible to get the tires up to temperature. There is no grip. It’s full of bumps and is pushing the limits of safety.”
“In the future, we will need to talk with the FIA and determine if it’s acceptable to continue racing under these conditions in the coming years. And then there’s also the position of the event on the calendar. To be completely honest, it’s very difficult for us.”
Fernando Alonso’s comments also focused on the final triple-header, highlighting the challenges of multiple time zones in a short period and intercontinental travel. According to the Oviedo native, this is not considered acceptable in other sports.
“Two weeks ago we were in Brazil, and now we are here in another time zone. Then we go to Qatar, which is a 17-hour flight and a 13-hour time difference. I don’t think any other sport would accept such a situation. So, I mean, okay, the track, the asphalt, and the timing in the calendar. For me, we are at the limit.” – the former Ferrari and McLaren driver pointed out.
“I believe I heard that the Las Vegas race has to take place at this time because it’s the quietest weekend in the city. But we cannot do things like this. Otherwise, we would go to Monaco in February because it’s quiet. There are certain things we need to consider, and we have to keep in mind that the sport must be the priority and considered first.”
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