Leclerc Summoned to Stewards for Double Breach at Las Vegas GP

Charles Leclerc faced the stewards at the Las Vegas Grand Prix after allegedly failing to replace his steering wheel and turn off his ERS following a halt on track during FP2. This unusual double breach occurred after the Ferrari driver experienced a gearbox issue, adding to the chaotic start of the Sin City event.

Why it matters:

Leclerc's alleged procedural oversight highlights potential safety and operational concerns. In the high-stakes environment of Formula 1, strict adherence to protocols, especially after a car stops on track, is paramount for both driver safety and the efficiency of recovery operations. Such breaches can lead to penalties that might impact a driver's weekend, even in practice sessions.

The Details:

• Incident Timeline: Leclerc's gearbox issue occurred shortly after FP2 resumed, following an initial red flag caused by a loose manhole cover. He pulled his SF-25 to the side, behind barriers, after it couldn't get up to speed.
• Alleged Breaches: The official stewards' document cited an "Alleged breach of Article 26.5 of the FIA Formula One Sporting Regulations – driver did not replace the steering wheel and turn off the ERS." These are standard safety procedures drivers are expected to follow when exiting a car on track.
• Context of Red Flag: Interestingly, a second, unrelated red flag was issued due to the ongoing manhole cover problem. This meant Leclerc didn't miss crucial track time in the closing stages of FP2, despite his car being sidelined.
• Steward Summons: The 28-year-old Ferrari driver was scheduled to report to the stewards at 22:00 local time to explain the situation.

What's next:

The stewards' decision will determine if Leclerc faces any penalties, which could range from a reprimand to a grid penalty for the upcoming race. This incident serves as a reminder that even seasoned drivers must meticulously follow all safety and operational procedures, regardless of the unique circumstances of a new circuit like Las Vegas. The outcome will be keenly watched as teams and drivers navigate the challenges of this highly anticipated, yet problematic, Grand Prix weekend.