Four-time reigning F1 champion Max Verstappen delivered a masterclass at this weekend's Las Vegas Grand Prix, clinching victory after both McLaren drivers were disqualified in post-race inspections.
Lando Norris originally crossed the line in second and Oscar Piastri in fourth, but officials found the skid blocks on both cars were below the minimum depth.
The disqualifications reshaped the standings: with just two race weekends left – Qatar next weekend and Abu Dhabi – each contender can still score a maximum of 58 points.
Heading into the Qatar round, Norris leads Verstappen by 24 points and shares Piastri's tally, making consistency crucial for all three title hopefuls.
Norris admitted, 'It's frustrating to lose so many points. As a team, we're always pushing to find performance, and today we clearly didn't get the balance right. Our full focus now is on Qatar.'
McLaren team principal Andrea Stella explained that 'unexpected, high levels of porpoising' led to 'excessive contact' and premature wear on the skid blocks. 'We apologize to Lando and Oscar for the loss of points today at such a critical time in their campaigns,' he said.
With 58 points on offer and a sprint race in Qatar, the 2025 title fight promises a dramatic finale as drivers battle over every lap and every split-second margin.
Reference(s):
Verstappen wins big at Las Vegas Grand Prix with McLarens disqualified
cgtn.com
