McLaren has publicly expressed regret to their drivers, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, following their disqualification from the Las Vegas Grand Prix. Despite finishing in second and fourth place in the race, the McLaren team faced scrutiny from stewards due to potential issues concerning the minimum width of the rearmost skid on their car.
In a statement released by McLaren team principal Andrea Stella, it was disclosed that the team had breached Article 3.5.9 of the Technical Regulations, which mandates a minimum 9mm skid thickness. Car 4 exceeded this requirement by a maximum of 0.12mm, and Car 81 by a maximum of 0.26mm.
The statement further explained that during the race, both cars encountered unexpected and heightened levels of porpoising, a phenomenon not observed during practice sessions. This led to increased contact with the ground, prompting an investigation into the car’s behavior, including the impact of unintentional damage sustained by both vehicles post-race, resulting in heightened floor movement.
Acknowledging that the breach was unintentional and without any deliberate intent to breach regulations, McLaren extended apologies to Lando and Oscar for the loss of points at a crucial juncture in their Championship campaigns. The team also expressed regret to their partners and fans for any disappointment caused.
Despite the setback, McLaren affirmed their unwavering focus on the final two races of the season. The disqualification has reshaped the Drivers’ World Championship landscape, with the Constructors’ Championship already secured by McLaren. Currently, Norris maintains the lead with 390 points, holding onto seven wins and 17 podium finishes in the season so far.
The gap to Piastri in second place remains at 24 points, but Max Verstappen has now drawn level with the Australian driver, injecting excitement into the title race. Verstappen’s victory in the Las Vegas Grand Prix has reignited his championship aspirations, overtaking Norris early in the race and maintaining his lead throughout.
The disheartened Norris and Piastri shared their disappointment following the disqualification, setting the stage for an intense final showdown in the remaining races of the 2025 season in Qatar and Abu Dhabi. The championship outcome remains uncertain, with all eyes on the competitors’ nerve and performance in the crucial races ahead.
Verstappen, reflecting on the upcoming challenges, emphasized the importance of car performance in Qatar and Abu Dhabi, acknowledging the significant gap to be overcome and the role of luck in the title race. The stage is set for a thrilling conclusion to the season, with Verstappen and Norris eyeing redemption and Piastri aiming to regain lost ground.