With just three races left in the 2024 Formula 1 season, the battle for second place in the constructors’ championship is reaching fever pitch. McLaren leads Ferrari by 36 points heading into the Las Vegas Grand Prix, but with The Strip Circuit favoring Ferrari’s strengths, the fight is far from over.
Sainz: Ferrari’s Strengths and Weaknesses
Carlos Sainz acknowledged Ferrari’s potential at the high-speed, 90-degree corners of Las Vegas but admitted their Achilles’ heel—managing tire temperatures—could be a decisive factor.
“We’ve been quick on tracks like this—long straights and 90-degree corners—but temperature management has been our biggest weakness this year,” Sainz said. “We’ve struggled to switch on the tires in both qualifying and races. In Vegas, with such cold temperatures, that’s going to be a massive challenge.”
Despite a 10-place grid penalty last year due to damage from a loose manhole cover, Sainz nearly reached fourth place, underlining Ferrari’s potential at this venue. His teammate, Charles Leclerc, battled the Red Bulls for victory, showing Ferrari’s ability to thrive in Las Vegas conditions.
McLaren’s Cautious Optimism
McLaren, buoyed by their stellar mid-season development, remains cautious about their chances in Nevada. Oscar Piastri, fresh off a breakthrough season that included his first F1 win in Qatar, expects a tough fight.
“Ferrari will be very strong,” Piastri admitted. “But I think we’re in a good spot. We’ve improved massively over the season, and while Vegas might favor them, we’ll be ready to maximize every opportunity.”
Lando Norris echoed his teammate’s sentiments, acknowledging Ferrari’s resurgence but emphasizing McLaren’s consistency. “They’ve clearly improved their car a lot this year,” Norris said. “Vegas might suit them more, but Qatar and Yas Marina could swing back in our favor. It’s all about execution now.”
The Numbers Game
With 36 points separating McLaren and Ferrari, the Scuderia has limited opportunities to close the gap. Following Las Vegas, only Qatar and Yas Marina remain—both circuits that may favor McLaren. Ferrari’s window to capitalize on their strengths is narrowing, and every point in Nevada could be critical.
Meanwhile, Red Bull sits 13 points behind Ferrari but has struggled to maintain form outside of Max Verstappen’s dominance, with Sergio Perez’s inconsistent performances contributing to the team’s backward slide.
Track Dynamics: The Vegas Effect
The Strip Circuit’s layout—with its long straights and sharp corners—plays to Ferrari’s strengths, as evidenced by their front-row lockout last year. However, the challenge of cold temperatures, unique to Las Vegas, poses risks for teams struggling with tire warm-up, such as Ferrari.
For McLaren, adaptability will be key. Their recent success has stemmed from balancing raw pace with efficient tire management, a trait they’ll need to exploit if they hope to fend off Ferrari in the closing stages of the season.
What’s at Stake?
For McLaren, securing P2 in the constructors’ championship would mark a triumphant return to form after years of rebuilding. For Ferrari, it’s about proving their resurgence and setting the stage for a stronger 2025 campaign.
With so much on the line, the 2024 Las Vegas Grand Prix isn’t just about who crosses the line first—it’s about who can seize the moment under the glittering lights of Sin City. Whether it’s McLaren holding firm or Ferrari launching a late-season charge, this showdown promises to be a must-watch spectacle.