McLaren Drivers Norris and Piastri Face Disqualification Threat from Las Vegas GP

McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri are at risk of disqualification from the Las Vegas Grand Prix after their car floor planks were found to be thinner than the mandated 9 millimeters during post-race technical inspections. This potential breach of regulations, previously penalized this season, could dramatically alter the Formula 1 World Championship standings, reigniting the title fight.

Why it matters:

This technical infringement could have monumental implications for the F1 World Championship. A disqualification for both McLaren drivers would not only strip Norris of his crucial second-place points from Las Vegas but also significantly tighten the championship battle, potentially bringing Max Verstappen much closer to the top with two races remaining. It highlights the FIA's stringent enforcement of technical regulations, ensuring fair competition.

The Details:

• The FIA delegate's technical inspection following the Las Vegas GP revealed that the floor planks of both Norris' (car #04) and Piastri's (car #81) McLaren cars were less than the prescribed 9 millimeters.
• This measurement was conducted according to legality documents submitted by the team, aligning with TD039 M, point 1.2 b) i).
• The specific rule violated is Article 3.5.9 e) of the Technical Regulations, which sets the minimum thickness for the skid plank.
• Precedent Set: A similar infringement earlier this season led to Lewis Hamilton's disqualification from the China GP, underscoring the FIA's consistent application of this rule.
• McLaren is now anxiously awaiting the stewards' decision, as the method of measurement is clear, leaving little room for interpretation.

The Big Picture:

Lando Norris had secured a critical second-place finish in Las Vegas, extending his lead in the Drivers' Championship to 408 points. Piastri is 30 points behind him. Reigning champion Max Verstappen, despite winning the race, remains 42 points adrift. If Norris and Piastri are disqualified, the championship scenario would drastically shift:

• Verstappen would be level on points with Piastri.
• Verstappen would close the gap to Norris to just 24 points.
• With two races remaining and a maximum of 58 points still available, this would effectively reset the championship, transforming it into a thrilling three-way battle.
• For Norris, losing his Las Vegas points would be a significant psychological blow, forcing him to take more risks in the final races instead of potentially securing the title early in Qatar.

What's next:

The stewards' decision is pending, but the clear precedent set by Hamilton's disqualification suggests that McLaren faces a serious threat of having both drivers excluded from the Las Vegas Grand Prix results. If the FIA rules consistently, the outcome could turn the Las Vegas event into a pivotal moment in this season's championship fight, dramatically intensifying the final two races.