Why was FP1 cancelled at F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix? Track repairs required after damage to Carlos Sainz's Ferrari

After months of anticipation, the Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix has gotten off to an anticlimactic start.

The first practice session on Thursday night (local time) was brought to a premature halt when Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz stopped on track.

A red flag was issued before race control announced that FP1 would not resume to due a drain cover issue.

MORE: Why is F1 on so late at night in Las Vegas?

Why was FP1 cancelled at F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix? Carlos Sainz's Ferrari suffers damage from drain cover

FP1 came to an early end in Vegas with the session cancelled after just eight minutes to allow for track repairs.

Television replays show Sainz driving over a loose drain cover before pulling his Ferrari to the side of the track.

The stewards quickly investigated the issue which appeared to cause serious damage to the floor of the Spaniard's car.

We still have a red flag as marshals move the Ferrari off track#F1 #LasVegasGP pic.twitter.com/qhtBGiUplQ

— Formula 1 (@F1) November 17, 2023

Fans in the grandstands were heard booing as the PA system announced the cancellation of the session, with fixes to the circuit required.

Esteban Ocon's Alpine car was also impacted by the manhole cover, although the damage did not appear to be as severe. 

"Following an FIA inspection, it was found a concrete frame around a manhole cover had failed during FP1," F1 wrote in a statement on social media.

"The FIA are commencing checks on all other covers across the circuit.

"Any changes to scheduling will be advised in due course."

An extended 90-minute FP2 session eventually took place at 2:30 a.m. local time, with spectators unable to watch.

Formula 1 Las Vegas schedule, times

Practice 1

Practice 2

Practice 3

Qualifying

Race