The McLaren cars, corresponding to Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris, have been placed under investigation after the 2025 Las Vegas Grand Prix, after the FIA detected a possible technical non-compliance related to skid plate wear.
According to the technical report issued after the race, the stewards checked the skid wear on both cars and carried out specific measurements in the rear area, following the parameters established in the legality documentation that the McLaren team itself had delivered. The evaluation was carried out in accordance with the provisions of Technical Directive TD039 M, section 1.2 b) i).
During these measurements, the FIA determined that the thickness of the skid plate on both cars was less than 9 millimeters than allowed, the mandatory minimum established in Article 3.5.9 e) of the Formula 1 Technical Regulations. This component is essential to ensure that the cars do not drive too close to the ground, which could provide undue aerodynamic advantages.
Lando Norris, McLaren
Photo by: Simon Galloway / LAT Images via Getty Images
Finding itself below the permitted threshold, the FIA decided to refer the case to the sports stewards, who must analyze the situation and determine whether sanctions should be applied. Depending on the interpretation of the circumstances, the consequences could range from loss of positions to disqualification from the race.
For now, McLaren has not issued an official comment, awaiting the final resolution from the stewards.
Norris finished in second position in the race behind Max Verstappen, who dominated the competition. The British McLaren driver managed to extend his lead against his teammate Oscar Piastri, who was fourth in the competition.
However, they will now have to wait for the stewards’ decision to find out if Norris will have his first opportunity to win the 2025 drivers’ championship in Qatar.
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