McLaren's Double DSQ Rocks F1 Title Fight After Las Vegas Grand Prix
McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri were both disqualified from the Las Vegas Grand Prix for a technical infringement, sending shockwaves through the F1 championship. This decision, due to non-compliant rear skid blocks, has significantly tightened the title race, bringing Max Verstappen level with Piastri and reducing Norris's lead to just 24 points with two races to go. Fans and the team alike are stunned by the 'colossal f*** up'.
Formula 1 fans were left in disbelief after McLaren's Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri were both disqualified from the Las Vegas Grand Prix, a decision that has significantly altered the drivers' championship battle. The pair, who initially finished second and fourth, had their results overturned due to their cars failing to meet the minimum thickness requirement for the rear skid block.
Why it matters:
This double disqualification is a massive blow to McLaren and their drivers, especially as the season nears its conclusion. It injects chaos into the championship, particularly for Norris, who maintains a lead but sees his advantage shrink dramatically. For Max Verstappen, who won the race, it's an unexpected boost, putting him level on points with Piastri and within striking distance of Norris with only two rounds remaining. This incident could profoundly influence the final outcome of the championship.
The Details:
- Double Disqualification: Both Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri were disqualified from the Las Vegas Grand Prix. Norris had finished second, and Piastri fourth.
- Technical Infraction: The disqualification was due to the rear skid blocks on both McLaren cars not meeting the FIA's minimum thickness requirements.
- Championship Impact:
- Max Verstappen, the race winner, is now tied on points with Oscar Piastri.
- Lando Norris still leads the championship, but his lead has been cut to just 24 points over both Piastri and Verstappen.
- Fan Reactions: Social media erupted with fan reactions, many expressing shock and calling the incident a "colossal f*** up." Comments ranged from comparing McLaren to Ferrari's past missteps to questioning the team's risk assessment at such a critical stage of the championship.
- Team Apology: McLaren team principal Andrea Stella issued an apology to both drivers, the team's partners, and fans, acknowledging the loss of points at a crucial time and expressing disappointment while reaffirming focus on the remaining races.
What's next:
The F1 circus now moves to the Qatar Grand Prix, which will host the final sprint race of the season. With the championship fight now tighter than ever, all eyes will be on how Norris, Piastri, and Verstappen respond, and whether McLaren can rebound from this significant setback to regain their competitive momentum.