In an unexpected blow to the front-running team, the headline “McLaren disqualified 2025” became reality when both drivers of the McLaren F1 Team were disqualified from the 2025 Las Vegas Grand Prix. The decision significantly alters the landscape of the 2025 drivers’ championship in Formula 1.
What happened and why
Both drivers — Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri — originally finished the race in second and fourth places respectively. However, post-race inspections revealed that the skid blocks (planks) on both cars were worn below the minimum allowed thickness of 9 mm, which constitutes a breach of the technical regulations.
McLaren acknowledged the infringement, noting that Car 04 (Norris) was 0.12 mm under the limit and Car 81 (Piastri) 0.26 mm under. The team attributed contributing factors including unexpected porpoising and limited weather-affected practice time, but the rules leave no alternative to disqualification in such cases.
Championship implications
The disqualification of both McLarens wipes out the points that Norris and Piastri would have earned in Las Vegas. As a result:
- Norris, who had been leading the championship comfortably, now sits only 24 points ahead of his closest rival with just two races remaining.
- Piastri is now level on points with the reigning champion, Max Verstappen, shaking up what had seemed a McLaren-headed title run.
- McLaren had already secured the Constructors’ Championship, so the DSQ affects only the drivers’ standings—but it dramatically alters internal team dynamics and strategic pressure.
Timeline of key events
- Nov 22 2025 – Final race of the Las Vegas weekend; Norris finishes 2nd, Piastri 4th on track.
- Post-race – Both cars are measured; skid blocks found to be under the 9 mm minimum.
- Stewards’ decision – Both McLarens are disqualified from the results.
- Aftermath – Championship standings are adjusted; the drivers’ title fight is reopened.
Why the rules matter
Skid blocks under F1 cars play a critical role in safety and regulation compliance. They ensure minimum ride height and limit wear under high downforce loads. Running below the allowed thickness offers a potential performance gain by lowering ride height, but if the plank is worn illegally, the penalty is disqualification. McLaren’s case highlights how even tiny fractions of a millimeter–under 0.3 mm–can trigger the harshest sanction under the rules.
What this means going forward
For Norris: His once-comfortable lead has evaporated. Every session and every lap now carries added weight.
For Piastri: Suddenly he is a full title contender, alongside Verstappen. His focus must shift from team support role to outright battle.
For McLaren: While winners of the Constructors’ title, the drivers’ side now demands flawless execution and zero margin for error. They must avoid any repeat technical slip.
For Verstappen: This is his opening. With just two races remaining, he can mount a serious comeback for a fifth consecutive drivers’ title.
For the 2025 season: The title fight is far from over. With 58 points still available and the momentum shifted, the season finale promises fireworks.
Key takeaway
“McLaren disqualified 2025” isn’t just a headline—it marks a turning point. What began as a near-sure championship path for McLaren’s drivers is now a precarious journey with everything at stake. The fine margin of technical compliance has reminded everyone that in Formula 1, victory and victory lost can hinge on mere millimetres.
