Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri have been disqualified from the Las Vegas Grand Prix due to a technical infringement. Following the night race in Sin City, both McLaren cars failed post-race technical checks, prompting Norris and Piastri to face the stewards.
FIA inspectors found that the planks underneath the McLaren vehicles were thinner than the required 9mm at the end of the race, indicating an unauthorized low ride height. Consequently, both drivers were excluded from the final results.
This development significantly impacts the drivers’ championship battle after Max Verstappen claimed victory in Las Vegas. With Norris and Piastri’s results nullified, Verstappen is now tied on points with Piastri and trails championship leader Norris by 24 points with two races left.
Both McLaren drivers attended a hearing with the stewards, which commenced at 7:45 am UK time and lasted over an hour. The final decision was announced around 2 am local time, over four hours post the Grand Prix conclusion.
Norris, who initially finished second after starting on pole, lost position to Verstappen at the race’s start. Despite reclaiming third from George Russell, he could not catch Verstappen. The disqualification means Norris must now defend against both his McLaren teammate and Verstappen in the remaining rounds.
Prior to his disqualification, Norris expressed disappointment with his race performance, citing a lack of pace. He acknowledged Verstappen’s strong performance and the Red Bull’s superiority. Looking ahead, Norris aims to regroup, relax, and refocus for the upcoming event in Qatar.