McLaren Drivers Norris and Piastri Face Disqualification in Las Vegas
McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri are on the verge of disqualification from the Las Vegas Grand Prix after their cars' underbody planks were found to be too thin. This technical infringement has consistently led to disqualifications in the past, potentially having major repercussions for the World Championship standings, particularly closing the gap to Max Verstappen.
Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri are facing almost certain disqualification from the Las Vegas Grand Prix due to an alleged technical infringement. Reports indicate that the plank or skid block under both McLaren cars was found to be too thin after the race, a violation that historically leads to immediate disqualification.
Why it matters:
This potential disqualification carries significant implications for the F1 World Championship fight, particularly for Max Verstappen. While Norris was seemingly pulling ahead in the title race, a 25-point swing resulting from this penalty could drastically alter the standings, bringing Verstappen much closer to both McLaren drivers.
The details:
- Both Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri have been summoned to the stewards for a technical infringement concerning the plank under their cars.
- FIA technical chief Joe Bauer reportedly spent an unusually long time in the McLaren garage after the race, leading to the investigation.
- Historical Precedent: In all previous cases where a car's plank was found to be too thin post-race, a disqualification followed.
- Recent examples include Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc at the 2023 United States GP, and prior instances in 2025 (Chinese GP for Hamilton and Leclerc, Bahrain GP for Nico Hülkenberg) for the same offense.
- This consistent pattern suggests that Norris and Piastri are unlikely to escape the penalty.
The big picture:
McLaren's strong performance in Las Vegas, with Norris potentially gaining significant points, would be completely nullified by a disqualification. This technicality, though seemingly minor, underscores the strict regulations in F1 and how closely teams are scrutinized post-race.
What's next:
The stewards' decision is expected shortly. Should the disqualification be confirmed, it will not only impact the drivers' individual standings but also shift the constructors' championship battle, adding an unexpected twist to the closing stages of the season. F1 fans will be eagerly awaiting the official ruling and its subsequent effects on the championship narrative.