Las Vegas GP: Winners & Losers Amidst Disqualification Chaos

The 2025 F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix concluded with significant controversy as both Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri were disqualified for excessive plank wear on their McLarens. Max Verstappen secured an easy victory, but the double disqualification had profound implications for both championships, extending even to teams not directly involved in McLaren's critical error.

Why it matters:

The Las Vegas GP's dramatic conclusion, particularly McLaren's double disqualification, has dramatically reshaped the F1 championship fight. With just two races remaining, the points swing has tightened the drivers' championship, bringing Max Verstappen firmly back into contention and putting immense pressure on McLaren to regain composure and reliability. This incident underscores the razor-thin margins and strict technical regulations that define Formula 1, where a seemingly minor infringement can have monumental consequences.

The details:

• McLaren's Calamity: Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, who finished second and fourth respectively, were both disqualified due to excessive plank wear on their MCL39s. This ruling nullified their points and significantly impacted the constructors' and drivers' standings.
• Verstappen's Gain: Max Verstappen's measured performance secured him a comfortable victory, but McLaren's disqualification was his real boon. He is now level on points with Piastri and within striking distance of Norris in the drivers' championship, overturning a seemingly insurmountable deficit.
• Piastri's Odd Advantage: Despite the disqualification, Oscar Piastri effectively gained ground on Norris. Having been set to fall 30 points behind, his 24-point gap remains unchanged, potentially proving decisive if he can mount a comeback.
• Aston Martin's Setback: A challenging weekend for Aston Martin saw both Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll struggle. Post-race, McLaren's disqualification ironically dropped Aston Martin to eighth in the constructors' standings, 18 points behind Racing Bulls, further compounding their woes amidst news of CEO Andy Cowell's impending departure.
• Antonelli's Rising Star: Kimi Antonelli delivered a magnificent drive, making a set of hard tires last for 47 laps and securing his second consecutive podium finish, albeit aided by McLaren's disqualification. Despite a five-second penalty, his performance highlighted his growing maturity and skill.
• Ferrari's Continued Struggles: Ferrari endured another underwhelming weekend, finishing ninth and twentieth on the grid. Lewis Hamilton's frustrated comments about 2025 being his 'worst' F1 season highlighted the team's ongoing struggles, particularly in wet conditions, leaving them 53 points behind Mercedes in the constructors' fight.

The big picture:

The Las Vegas GP's chaotic outcome has turned the F1 season on its head. What seemed like a clear path for McLaren and Norris has become a nail-biting, three-way championship battle, with Verstappen now a serious threat. McLaren faces immense pressure to perform flawlessly in the remaining races, while Ferrari's consistent underperformance raises questions about their competitiveness and direction. The championship's conclusion promises to be a thrilling spectacle, heavily influenced by the unexpected twists and turns in Las Vegas.

What's next:

With the championship fight now wide open, the final two rounds in Qatar and Abu Dhabi will be critical. McLaren will need to ensure their cars are not only fast but also fully compliant with regulations to avoid further penalties. Verstappen, buoyed by this unexpected opportunity, will push hard to capitalize on any further misfortune from McLaren. Meanwhile, teams like Aston Martin and Ferrari will be looking to salvage their seasons and gather crucial data for future developments.