F1 apologizes without apology and issues merchandise vouchers to fans who had tickets but were excluded from training
Ticket-holding fans excluded from Las Vegas Grand Prix (LVGP) practice on Friday morning were given Formula 1 vouchers, but Formula 1 made no apology for throwing the items away .
At 11:38 pm, eight minutes into the first LVGP practice session on Thursday, a loose manhole cover on the track was sucked up by Carlos Sainz's $15 million Ferrari, which was a major blow to the world. The car caused extensive damage and required a red flag as the team frantically removed manhole covers along the 3.8-mile route.
All necessary repairs to the track have been carried out as planned for the second practice session at 3am on Friday. After a two-hour wait, fans were kicked out of their seats at 1:30 a.m.
Sorry, not sorry
Late on Friday, F1 CEO Stefano Domencali and LVGP CEO Renee Wilm released a joint statement on Twitter. It explained the events that led to the disturbing outcome but offered no apology to eliminated ticket holders, some of whom paid up to $50,000 for three-day tickets.
It dismissed the disaster, comparing it to other failed sports and entertainment events and stating "it's happening".
On Friday night, Formula 1 released another statement, also unapologetic, saying anyone who purchased a day ticket on Friday would receive a $200 voucher for racing merchandise.
No refunds or discounts have been announced for those who purchased three-day tickets.
F1 explanation
F1's initial statement said: "We have taken the decision to close fan areas within the jurisdiction of the LVGP at 1:30am PT and send fans home. "Let us explain why.
"First, we are concerned that our security personnel, who have been on duty for an extended period of time, will have to work the next three nights. We thank the Metro Police Department, Department of Public Works and other public safety officials for their support during the event and this morning when the track reopened Great support given.
"Second, we are concerned about the transportation personnel responsible for driving fans back to their hotels. Federal law limits the time periods during which they can legally and safely operate buses.
“Ultimately, our hospitality staff need the opportunity to clean and restock our guest areas to ensure the best possible fan experience for everyone over the coming days.”
"We know this is disappointing. We hope this announcement will help our fans understand that we must balance the many interests including the safety of all participants and the fan experience throughout the race weekend.
"We've all been to events such as concerts, races and even other Formula 1 races that have been canceled due to weather or technical issues. It's happening and we hope people understand."
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Source: www.casino.org
