P1racenews AI automatic summary:
As the Lando Norris-Oscar Piastri F1 title fight heads to Las Vegas, there’s no certainty the responses McLaren has made to its 2024 struggles will help it avoid a repeat
Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri are facing a major challenge in their Formula 1 title showdown in Las Vegas, with McLaren making adjustments to address their struggles from 2024 at this track, though success is not guaranteed. Both drivers have encountered difficulties with tyre issues and aerodynamic compromises due to the unique characteristics of the Las Vegas circuit. Last year, Norris finished sixth and Piastri seventh, while Max Verstappen clinched the world title and George Russell won the race. McLaren’s struggles at Las Vegas highlight the need to manage tyre temperatures effectively, which has been a weak point for the team. Despite making changes based on last year’s performance, McLaren remains uncertain if they will be competitive this time around given advancements made by their rivals. Improved tyres introduced by Pirelli this season may impact graining issues experienced by teams like McLaren, but the actual effects won’t be known until the race weekend. Ferrari had a strong showing last year in Las Vegas, but team principal Fred Vasseur acknowledges that the dynamic may shift this time due to evolving conditions.
