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December 24.2025

2 Minutes Read

Why McLaren’s Disqualification at the Las Vegas Grand Prix Changes Everything for the Championship

Middle-aged man in McLaren jacket at a formula one event

The Rumble of the Las Vegas Grand Prix: McLaren's Unexpected Disqualification

The Las Vegas Grand Prix was expected to be a spectacular showdown, but instead turned into a storm of confusion for McLaren fans. In a surprising twist, both Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri were disqualified post-race due to excessive plank wear on their cars, prompting team principal Andrea Stella to publicly apologize. This situation unfolded so quickly that it flipped the dynamic of the drivers' championship on its head.

Implications of the Double Disqualification

This disqualification not only cost Norris and Piastri their hard-earned points but also tightened the race for the title significantly. Norris, who seemed poised to extend his lead, now only holds a 24-point advantage over championship rival Max Verstappen, who is now tied on points with Piastri. The implications are colossal, as this brings an unexpected air of uncertainty into the final races of the season.

Tech Talk: Understanding Plank Wear Violations

The FIA regulations state that the minimum thickness of the car's rear skid—commonly referred to as the plank—must be at least 9 millimeters. Both McLaren drivers fell short of this requirement due to unexpectedly high levels of porpoising, a phenomenon where the car bounces excessively at high speeds. This uncharacteristic behavior led to unforeseen wear and subsequent disqualification, reminding fans and teams alike how razor-thin the margin for error can be in Formula 1.

Contextualizing McLaren's Challenges

It's crucial to note that this isn't an isolated incident for McLaren. Throughout the 2025 season, other notable drivers have faced similar penalties for technical violations. Notably, Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc have also been disqualified due to issues with plank wear. As McLaren pursues their first drivers' title since 2008, this double DQ raises questions about their strategies and the effectiveness of their adjustments to maintain compliance.

What's Next for McLaren?

As we approach the final two races of the season, McLaren's prospects are shadowed by doubt. Norris still has a solid shot at the championship, but every race is now crucial. With Verstappen’s resurgence, every lap pushes the boundaries of performance and strategy. Will McLaren be able to recalibrate and strike back in Qatar and Abu Dhabi? Fans are left on the edge of their seats.

In conclusion, as the Formula One season unfolds, what was once a solid lead for McLaren is now a fraught battle of precision and resilience. Each driver's championship points become a battleground, and with just two races left, every moment counts.

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