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SportsFormula 1 Ordered to Pay $3 Million in Damages Over Las Vegas GP Fan Lawsuit
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A class-action lawsuit filed by fans after the 2023 Las Vegas Grand Prix practice session debacle has resulted in Formula 1 and the race organizers being ordered to pay $3 million in damages. The controversy began when a loose manhole cover damaged Carlos Sainz's Ferrari during free practice, forcing a lengthy track inspection. Due to overtime restrictions on security personnel, the inspection was delayed, and the practice session eventually started at 3 a.m. without spectators. Many fans left without seeing any on-track action. The initial lawsuit sought $3 billion but was dismissed in 2025. After an amended indictment, the case concluded with the $3 million award. Fans who purchased tickets through official channels or Ticketmaster will be automatically notified, while others must file claims by August 27. Notably, a similar manhole cover issue occurred during the 2025 Las Vegas GP practice, though it was resolved in 14 minutes.
Source report
Las Vegas – In 2023, Formula 1 returned to the glittering luxury city of Las Vegas for the first time since the 1980s. However, for fans hoping to watch free practice, the event turned into a frustrating ordeal. After a practice crash involving Carlos Sainz (31), the entire track required inspection, delaying the session until 3 a.m. — without spectators present.
Fans filed a lawsuit and have now been proven right. Formula 1 and the Las Vegas Grand Prix must pay $3 million in damages.
Practice Crash by Carlos Sainz
During free practice, an unsealed manhole cover shattered the car of then-Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz (31, now with Williams). Due to high downforce, the anchor tore from the underbody of the race car.
The consequences were significant:
- All manhole covers on the track had to be inspected.
- Security personnel responsible for the extensive check were not permitted to work overtime, further delaying the session.
- Fans received no information about the delays.
- Many spectators left the track without seeing a single car drive.
- According to reports, some fans were also turned away by police.
The 2023 race was interrupted for hours due to track work. Photo: Nick Didlick/FR AP/dpa
The practice session eventually began in the middle of the night — without spectators. Fans subsequently 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 has now concluded with a $3 million damages award.
Compensation: Certain Fans Must File a Claim
- Spectators who purchased tickets through the official organizer of the Las Vegas GP or through Ticketmaster will be automatically informed about their claims.
- Those who used other ticket portals must file a claim independently by August 27.
Notably: During the 2025 Las Vegas race, the second practice session was again interrupted due to a broken manhole cover. However, the pause lasted only 14 minutes that time.
Source
BILD - SportWestern
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Formula 1 Ordered to Pay $3 Million in Damages Over Las Vegas GP Fan Lawsuit