Bearman criticizes the Vegas track as Verstappen avoids the spotlight.

      "The high speeds make it even more perilous."

      Oliver Bearman has deviated from the typical diplomatic language of Formula 1 drivers by openly criticizing the Las Vegas street circuit, labeling it the most unenjoyable track he has ever experienced. "This is the least fun street circuit I’ve ever driven," the 20-year-old stated to reporters. "Usually, street circuits are really fun and fantastic. Here, there's just very little grip, which isn't a good combination with the narrow track," added Bearman, a Ferrari-supported driver making his debut at Haas. "Moreover, the high speeds make it even more perilous. Racing on the Strip is exciting, but aside from that, there’s not much to appreciate."

      He is also unable to enjoy Las Vegas off the track, as he is prohibited from entering the casinos due to his age. These remarks come as organizers are once again embarrassed due to another manhole incident that disrupted the running, reminiscent of a similar issue in the past. Max Verstappen, known for his critiques of artificial street races, chose not to criticize this time, clearly conscious of the attention he usually attracts. "No, I feel good," he smiled. "The food is excellent. I had a nice dinner. The hotel is wonderful. I've learned that it’s better not to speak too much — it’s beneficial for me and leads to fewer headlines. It’s safer for everyone."

      However, the Dutch driver was more forthright when speaking to his local media. When asked about the ongoing discussion regarding F1’s increasingly stringent regulations, especially concerning driver guidelines, Verstappen mimed ripping up the rule book. "It’s better if I don’t say anything," he cautioned. "If I talk too much publicly, I could even incur a penalty."

      "I don’t always agree with the rules, but I follow them as they are written. The more regulations you impose, the more challenging you make your own job," Verstappen remarked. "Stewards find themselves in a tough spot — they must adhere to the rule book. You observe something firsthand, form an opinion, and then check the rules and it may contradict what you saw."

      "You definitely won’t see me serving as a steward in F1!" Regarding the drivers' meeting next week with the FIA in Qatar, where Carlos Sainz and George Russell plan to voice their concerns about recent penalties, Verstappen plans to remain silent. "I think Carlos and George have prepared everything for it," he noted. "So I’ll just sit back and relax."