McLaren has issued an apology to their drivers, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, following their disqualification from the Las Vegas Grand Prix. Despite finishing second and fourth in the race, the team faced scrutiny over the minimum width of the rearmost skid on their cars, leading to the disqualification.
In a statement from McLaren team principal Andrea Stella, it was revealed that the breach of Article 3.5.9 of the Technical Regulations was due to a slight deviation in the skid thickness of both cars. The team explained that during the race, both cars exhibited unexpected porpoising, causing excessive contact with the ground, possibly due to accidental damage sustained that resulted in increased floor movement.
Acknowledging that the breach was unintentional with no deliberate attempt to bypass regulations, McLaren extended apologies to Norris and Piastri for the loss of points at a critical juncture in their Championship campaigns. The team also expressed regret to their partners and fans for the incident and emphasized their focus on the remaining two races of the season.
The disqualification has reshaped the Drivers’ World Championship standings, with Norris leading with 390 points and Verstappen now tied with Piastri, presenting a slim chance for the reigning champion to secure another title. Verstappen’s victory in the Las Vegas Grand Prix has injected new excitement into the championship race, setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion in Qatar and Abu Dhabi.
Both Norris and Piastri shared their disappointment over the disqualification, setting the stage for intense competition in the final races of the 2025 season. With the title race heating up, the upcoming events promise to deliver nail-biting action as the contenders battle for supremacy on the track.
