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Sky Sports presenter and former racing car driver, Danica Patrick, has stirred controversy by suggesting that fans who saw just nine minutes of the action at the Las Vegas Grand Prix should consider purchasing tickets for the entire weekend next year.
Charles Leclerc on track during practice ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Las Vegas at Las Vegas Strip Circuit (Image Credit: Jared C. Tilton – Getty Images)The remark followed in response to the chaos caused in FP1 by a loose drain cover, which led to a two-and-a-half-hour delay in FP2 as organizers worked fast and hard to rectify the issues.
Drain cover chaos and disappointed fans
Unfortunately, some fans, who braved the cold Las Vegas weather, staying at the circuit into the early hours of Saturday morning, were forced to leave before the start of FP2 due to safety and logistical concerns.
The controversial move to evacuate fans before the commencement of the second practice session ignited a wave of discontent among spectators, leading to widespread criticism. The dissatisfaction stemmed from the perception that those who had purchased practice tickets felt shortchanged, as they were afforded a paltry nine minutes of actual on-track action.
This decision left many fans scratching their heads at how thorough the organizers were in the lead-up to the inaugural race on Sunday.
Danica’s off-key comments
Patrick, speaking on Sky Sports F1 ahead of FP3, appeared to defend the controversial decision, asserting that the Las Vegas Grand Prix is about “more than just the cars”. She suggested that the glitzy event encompasses various elements, that transcend beyond just the racing aspect of the weekend ahead.
“Maybe it’ll drive them to get tickets for next year so that they can see the whole thing or buy a whole weekend pass,” Patrick commented, seemingly downplaying the importance of the on-track experience. Despite acknowledging the track’s regret over the situation, she emphasized the broader spectacle, including suites, views, entertainment, and opening ceremonies.
“It’s everything around the cars, not just the cars and so I’m sure that they were able to enjoy that. The suites, the views, the entertainment and the opening ceremonies were stunning and there are just so many things about this city.”
Patrick concluded, brushing off the discontent among fans who had hoped for a more substantial and fulfilling experience during the Las Vegas Grand Prix, saying: “People come to Vegas for Vegas so they still have plenty to do. Obviously a really unfortunate situation but I think in the end, it’ll all be great.”
Feature Image Credit: Chris Graythen – Getty Images
