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Sainz Faces Grid Penalty in Las Vegas GP: Manhole Cover Incident Sparks FIA Controversy

Updated: Sep 19

Carlos Sainz is set to face a grid penalty in the upcoming Las Vegas Grand Prix due to a manhole cover incident that violated FIA regulations. The Ferrari Formula 1 car struck a manhole cover during the first race weekend on the iconic Las Vegas Strip. Unfortunately, FIA regulations do not permit exceptions for "mitigating, unusual, and unfortunate circumstances."

The unexpected turn of events occurred when Esteban Ocon, driving for Alpine, ran over a water valve cover, causing it to protrude from the resurfaced asphalt. Despite the yellow flag raised after Ocon's incident, Sainz continued and collided with the loose cover, leading to significant damage to the Ferrari.


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