Norris' 49-point lead over Max Verstappen heading into the Las Vegas GP has shrunk considerably. The title fight is suddenly wide open again after the FIA disqualified both McLarens for breaching the regulations on plank wear.

The technical regulations (Article 3.5.9) require a minimum skid-block thickness of 9 mm — and both MCL39s were found to be below that threshold. After a thorough inspection, the FIA had no choice but to disqualify them, a ruling that suddenly keeps Max Verstappen in the title hunt.

In the document released by race control after the inspection, McLaren tried to defend its drivers, arguing that “there was additional and unexpected porpoising at this event, limited opportunity to test due to the weather on Day 1, and shortened practice sessions.”

The FIA, while acknowledging McLaren’s arguments, stated that “there was no provision in the regulations or in precedent for any penalty other than the usual penalty” — in this case, disqualification.

The governing body also stressed that “it strongly held the view that the breach was unintentional and that there was not deliberate attempt to circumvent the regulations.”

The British team had one final argument, stressing that “there was potentially accidental damage that may have led to movement of the floor which could have caused additional wear.” Even so, the stewards did not consider the explanation sufficient.

With that unexpected gift suddenly landing in his lap, the four-time world champion now finds himself with a real shot at defending his crown and launching one last push for a fifth world title — even if the championship remains very much in Norris’ hands.

Verstappen is now 24 points back, level on points with Oscar Piastri — who, thanks to this disqualification, also stays closer to his teammate in the standings.