In a stunning twist that has reshaped the 2025 Formula 1 World Championship, McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri have been disqualified from the Las Vegas Grand Prix. The dramatic post-race decision, announced on Sunday 23 November 2025, follows an FIA investigation into excessive plank wear on both cars.
A Dramatic Turn of Events in the Desert
Initially, the race at the Las Vegas Strip Circuit appeared to deliver a massive result for Lando Norris. Finishing in a strong second place behind Red Bull's Max Verstappen, Norris had seemingly extended his lead in the drivers' championship to a formidable 30 points. His teammate, Oscar Piastri, crossed the line in fourth position, further solidifying McLaren's constructor championship victory.
However, the celebrations were cut short. The FIA's technical delegates placed both McLaren cars under scrutiny for a potential breach of the technical regulations concerning excessive plank wear. The matter was subsequently escalated to the race stewards, who, after deliberation, issued the severe penalty of disqualification.
The Championship Fallout: A Tightened Battle
The disqualification has profound implications for the title fight with just two rounds remaining. Norris's lead, which seemed almost insurmountable, has now been drastically reduced. He now heads to the final races with 390 points, leading the pack by a much narrower margin.
The battle for second place has intensified dramatically. Oscar Piastri and Max Verstappen are now level on 366 points. However, by virtue of having more race victories this season—seven wins to Verstappen's six—the Australian driver retains the second position in the standings. This sets the stage for a thrilling finale where every point will be critical.
Updated F1 Driver Standings
Here is the full picture of the drivers' championship after the Las Vegas Grand Prix disqualifications:
1. Lando Norris (McLaren) – 390 points
2. Oscar Piastri (McLaren) – 366 points
3. Max Verstappen (Red Bull) – 366 points
4. George Russell (Mercedes) – 294 points
5. Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) – 226 points
The remainder of the top ten includes Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari) on 152 points, Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes) on 137, Alex Albon (Williams) on 73, Isack Hadjar (Racing Bulls) on 51, and Nico Hulkenberg (Sauber) on 49 points.
Constructor Championship Confirmed
Despite the double disqualification, one piece of silverware is already secured. McLaren has officially won the 2025 F1 Constructors' Championship with a total of 786 points. Mercedes sits in a distant second with 423 points, followed by Red Bull on 391 and Ferrari on 371.
With only 58 points left to contest before the season concludes, the focus now shifts entirely to the fierce three-way battle for the drivers' crown. Lando Norris's 24-point cushion is significant but no longer comfortable, ensuring an explosive end to the 2025 campaign.
