Ocon's car damaged by Las Vegas drain covers

The Alpine driver sustained damage after completing just four laps out on the new circuit.

17 November 2023

Esteban Ocon sustained damage to his car during the opening minutes of the first practice session for the Las Vegas Grand Prix. The Alpine driver ventured out for four laps before he was forced to pit, after hitting a drain cover during his final lap. A team spokesperson confirmed: "We will change the chassis on Car #31 due to damage from a suspected drain cover on track." The incident happened moments before Carlos Sainz stopped out on track, having also ran over a drain cover which killed his engine. The FIA subsequently abandoned the session as they completed an inspection of the circuit.

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