In a stunning turn of events at the Circuit of the Americas, reigning world champion Max Verstappen has been stripped of his United States Grand Prix victory following a dramatic post-race technical inspection that sent shockwaves through the Formula 1 paddock.
Technical Infringement Costs Red Bull Dearly
The FIA stewards delivered a crushing blow to both Red Bull and Ferrari after discovering excessive wear on the plank under both Verstappen's race-winning car and Charles Leclerc's Ferrari, which had initially finished sixth. The mandatory technical check revealed both cars had exceeded the permitted 1mm wear limit on their skid blocks.
This controversial decision promotes McLaren's Lando Norris to second place and elevates seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton to an unexpected podium finish, marking a significant shake-up in the championship standings.
Post-Race Scrutineering Reveals Critical Issue
During routine post-race checks, FIA technical delegates made the crucial discovery that would alter the race outcome. The excessive plank wear was attributed to the Circuit of the Americas' notoriously bumpy surface combined with the cars running particularly low ride heights to maximize performance.
Representatives from both Red Bull and Ferrari acknowledged the technical infringement during hearings with the stewards but argued the extreme conditions at the Austin circuit contributed to the unusual wear patterns.
Hamilton's Unexpected Podium Return
The disqualification creates a remarkable turn of fortune for Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton, who now claims his first podium finish since the Dutch Grand Prix in September. The revised results see Hamilton elevated from fourth to third position, providing a significant boost to both driver and team morale.
McLaren's celebration continues as Lando Norris moves up to second place, strengthening his position in the championship battle and delivering another strong result for the resurgent British team.
Championship Implications
While the disqualification doesn't affect Verstappen's commanding lead in the drivers' championship, the reshuffled results have significant consequences for the tightly contested battle for second place. The lost points could prove crucial in the constructors' championship where every position carries financial and strategic importance.
The dramatic post-race development serves as a stark reminder that in Formula 1, the race isn't truly over until the technical delegates have completed their meticulous inspections and the stewards have rendered their final decisions.
