Formula 1 Ordered to Pay $3 Million in Damages Over Las Vegas GP Manhole Cover Lawsuit

Las Vegas – In 2023, Formula 1 raced through the glittering luxury city of Las Vegas for the first time since the 1980s. But for fans who wanted to watch the free practice, it became a dark night. After a practice crash by Carlos Sainz (31), the entire track had to be inspected. The practice session therefore only started at 3 a.m. – without fans.

They filed a lawsuit and have now been proven right. Formula 1 and the Las Vegas GP must pay $3 million in damages.

Formula 1: Practice Crash by Carlos Sainz

During free practice, an unsealed manhole cover shattered the car of then-Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz (31, now Williams). Due to the high downforce, the anchor tore from the underbody of the race car.

The consequence: All manhole covers on the track had to be checked. However, the security personnel who had to carry out the mammoth check were not allowed to work overtime. This delayed the practice session even further. Fans received no information. Many spectators left the track without seeing a car drive. According to reports, they were also sent away by the police.

The 2023 race was interrupted for hours due to track work. Photo: Nick Didlick/FR AP/dpa

Finally, the practice session started in the middle of the night without spectators. They sued Formula 1 and the Las Vegas GP for a total of $3 billion. In 2025, the case was dismissed. After the indictment was amended, the trial continued and now ended with the $3 million in damages.

Compensation: Certain Fans Must File a Claim

• Spectators who bought tickets through the official organizer of the Las Vegas GP or through Ticketmaster will be automatically informed about their claims.
• Those who used other portals must file a claim independently by August 27.

Curious: At the 2025 Las Vegas race, the second practice session had to be interrupted again due to a broken manhole cover. However, the pause only lasted 14 minutes that time.