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RacingNews365’s technical analyst Paolo Filisetti explains just what went wrong for McLaren in its double Las Vegas DSQ.
The disqualifications of both McLarens from the Las Vegas Grand Prix have delivered a blow to the Woking team, as Max Verstappen now sits just 24 points behind Lando Norris in the standings following his victory.
McLaren’s decision to opt for a loaded aerodynamic set-up in qualifying mirrored Mercedes’ choice in 2024, aiming for increased downforce akin to Spa’s configuration to enhance tyre temperature.
Andrea Stella’s official statement attributed the disqualifications to excessive scrapping caused by porpoising, a phenomenon aggravated by low ride-heights during the race.
The dry conditions of the race, different from practice and qualifying, exposed McLaren’s critical mistake.
Despite the set-up providing greater grip and speed during the race, the MCL39’s torsion bars were unable to prevent frequent bottoming out due to lack of long run simulations on slick tyres.
McLaren’s ambitious attempt to push the car’s performance limits on an unsuitable track led to an oversight that significantly impacted the outcome, emphasizing the importance of meticulous preparation and strategy in competitive motorsport.
