McLaren has expressed regret 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 width of the rearmost skid on their cars.
In a statement from McLaren team principal Andrea Stella, it was disclosed that the team breached Article 3.5.9 of the Technical Regulations by a slight margin on the skid thickness. Both cars encountered unexpected porpoising during the race, leading to increased contact with the ground. The team is investigating the reasons behind this behavior, including accidental damage affecting the car’s movement.
Acknowledging that the breach was unintentional, McLaren issued apologies to Norris and Piastri for the lost points, especially considering their strong performances throughout the weekend. The team also extended apologies to their partners and fans. Despite the setback, McLaren remains focused on the final two races of the season.
The disqualification has reignited the competition in the Drivers’ World Championship, with Norris leading the standings with 390 points. Piastri trails by 24 points, while Max Verstappen has leveled with Piastri, enhancing his chances for another title after winning the Las Vegas Grand Prix.
Both Norris and Piastri expressed disappointment over the disqualification, setting the stage for a fiercely contested finale in Qatar and Abu Dhabi. The outcome of the championship remains uncertain, with Verstappen hinting at the importance of luck in the title race.
Verstappen’s victory at last year’s Qatar Grand Prix and Norris’s triumph at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix point towards an electrifying conclusion to the current season. Fans can anticipate a thrilling season finale with unexpected twists and turns.