McLaren duo under fire as FIA confirms technical breach; championship battle tightens with only two races left.
Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri face possible F1 disqualification after the Las Vegas Grand Prix, where Max Verstappen secured victory. FIA officials found excessive plank wear on both McLaren cars, sparking a major shake-up in the 2025 F1 title race as the championship gaps narrow dramatically.
Key Points
- FIA detected excessive plank wear on both McLaren cars, violating technical rules.
- Norris and Piastri risk full disqualification from the Las Vegas Grand Prix.
- Verstappen’s championship chances rise sharply as points tighten.
- McLaren representatives were present during the re-measurement process.
- Only two race weekends remain, with 58 crucial points still on the table.
Las Vegas (Star Struck Times) — In a dramatic turn of events at the Las Vegas Grand Prix, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri of McLaren are facing potential disqualification after the FIA detected a technical infringement on both cars.
The controversy surfaced shortly after Max Verstappen clinched victory, with Norris finishing second and Piastri securing fourth place—results that temporarily boosted Norris to a 30-point lead in the fiercely contested 2025 Formula 1 Championship.
Why Are Norris and Piastri Facing Disqualification?
According to FIA Technical Delegate Jo Bauer, inspections revealed that the rearmost skid block on both McLaren cars measured below the mandated 9mm minimum thickness, violating Article 3.5.9 of the F1 Technical Regulations.
Stewards further confirmed:
“The thickness of the plank assembly was below the permitted minimum thickness.”
The measurement was rechecked in the presence of FIA stewards and McLaren representatives, all confirming non-compliance.
Impact on the 2025 F1 Championship
If the disqualification is upheld, Verstappen becomes the biggest beneficiary, now tied with Piastri at 366 points, while Norris remains ahead with 390 points, holding a slim 24-point lead.
With only 58 points available across the remaining two Grand Prix weekends (including one sprint), the championship battle is now more unpredictable than ever.
FAQs
Q1: Why were Norris and Piastri investigated?
The FIA found that the skid blocks under their cars were thinner than allowed, which can indicate excessive floor wear—against F1 regulations.
Q2: What happens if they are disqualified?
Their Las Vegas GP results will be nullified, which could significantly change the championship standings.
Q3: Is McLaren appealing the decision?
As of now, McLaren has not issued an official appeal but is expected to release a statement soon.
Q4: Does this affect Verstappen’s title hopes?
Yes. A disqualification puts Verstappen back into strong contention for the 2025 F1 title.
Q5: How many races are left?
Two Grand Prix weekends remain, including one sprint race.
Do you think McLaren should challenge the FIA’s decision, or were the regulations enforced fairly? Share your opinion in the comments!