Stefano Domenicali, the CEO of Formla One, has declined to issue an apology for the ridiculous start to this weekend’s Las Vegas Grand Prix.
The F1 chief declines to issue apology for the ridiculous opening to Las Vegas barely eight minutes remaining in the opening practice on Thursday night, the £500 million race was called off after months of build-up.
After a two-and-a-half-hour delay, the second running was held in front of empty grandstands after infuriated fans were ejected in accordance with local employment laws. Friday morning practice ended at four in the morning.
The CEO of the Las Vegas F1 chief declines to issue gas race, Renee Wilm, and Domenicali issued a 650-word joint statement, but the sport’s red-faced executives did not offer an apology.
“We have all attended events that have been postponed before due to weather or technical difficulties, including games, concerts, and even other Formula One races,” they said.
“We hope people will understand that it happens.”
Supporters who purchased general admission tickets for the two practice sessions on Thursday for $200 US dollars (£160) have been given a voucher good for the same amount that can be used to purchase merchandise.
However, attendees with a three-day pass (the least expensive being $500 US/£400 UK) will not be reimbursed.
The statement continued: “We know this was disappointing. We hope our fans will understand that we had to balance many interests, including the safety and security of all participants and the fan experience over the whole race weekend.
How then are we going to handle this tonight?
“In the event of an extended race schedule, we have worked through the night to modify our staffing plans across security, transportation, and hospitality to ensure that we can continue operating and providing the best possible experience for fans.”
“We are thrilled to be competing today, and we appreciate the support from our fans and the entire team. We are certain that this will be a fantastic event. And with that, let us return to our racing.
The 50-lap race on Saturday will have qualifying starting at midnight local time (8 am GMT on Saturday).
