McLaren Disqualified from Las Vegas Grand Prix; Team Apologizes to Drivers
McLaren faced a significant setback at the Las Vegas Grand Prix as both drivers, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, were disqualified due to excessive plank wear. Team principal Andrea Stella expressed regret to both drivers following the decision, which came after the FIA determined that the breaches were unintentional.
Norris, who originally finished second, and Piastri, who crossed the line in fourth, were found in violation of Article 3.5.9 of the technical regulations, which mandates a minimum 9mm skid thickness. Norris’s car registered an infringement of 0.12mm, while Piastri’s measured 0.26mm, according to post-race checks.
The disqualifications mean that Norris’s championship lead over Piastri remains at 24 points instead of the anticipated 30. Max Verstappen, who won the race, has now leveled his points with Piastri, intensifying the competitive landscape as the season nears its conclusion.
Stella cited unexpected porpoising during the race as a contributing factor, stating, “Both cars experienced unexpected, high levels of porpoising not seen in the practice sessions, leading to excessive contact with the ground.” The team is currently investigating the issue, including potential accidental damage sustained during the race.
He added, “We apologize to Lando and Oscar for the loss of points today, at a critical time in their championship campaigns.” McLaren’s disqualification adds their names to a troubling list this season, joining Lewis Hamilton and Nico Hulkenberg, who were also disqualified for similar infractions.
As the team aims to regroup and refocus for the final two races of the season, the implications of this disqualification will be closely watched in the championship battle ahead.
