BREAKING: FIA announce Norris inspection as sa.... read more

FIA Conducts Routine Inspection on Norris’ Car After Japanese Grand Prix

Lando Norris’ impressive second-place finish at the Japanese Grand Prix came under the spotlight as his McLaren MCL39 was subjected to a thorough post-race inspection by the FIA. The Briton, who continues to lead the 2025 Formula 1 drivers’ standings by a narrow margin, saw his car selected for random checks following the race at Suzuka.

As per standard FIA procedures, cars finishing within the top 10 are routinely selected at random for detailed inspection to ensure compliance with Formula 1’s technical and sporting regulations. In this case, Norris’ McLaren was the focus, with both a fuel sample and an engine oil sample taken from the vehicle. These were analyzed for density and viscosity to confirm their conformity with the rules.

The FIA later confirmed that the samples met all regulatory standards, meaning there were no irregularities with Norris’ car, and the race results stood unaltered. Norris retained his second-place finish behind Max Verstappen, while his McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri followed in third.

Despite McLaren appearing to have the strongest package throughout the weekend, Verstappen delivered a masterclass in qualifying, putting in a sensational lap to secure pole position. That lap proved decisive, as it allowed the Red Bull driver to control the race from the front, making it difficult for Norris to mount a serious challenge.

During the race, Norris appeared to have a slight pace advantage at times but was ultimately hindered by running in Verstappen’s dirty air—a factor that compromises aerodynamic efficiency and tire performance. Overtaking at Suzuka remains a formidable challenge, and Norris found no opportunity to pass, eventually settling for second place.

While McLaren will be somewhat disappointed not to have converted their strong pace into a victory, they can take comfort in a double podium finish, a clear sign that the MCL39 is a genuine contender this season. The team remains a major threat, and with the car consistently performing well across different circuits, both Norris and Piastri look poised to be in the title conversation for the foreseeable future.

Verstappen’s victory marked his first win of the 2025 season and reminded fans and rivals alike of the Dutchman’s race-winning pedigree. Despite a slow start to the campaign, the reigning four-time world champion used his trademark consistency and sharp racecraft to fend off the McLaren challenge and get his season back on track.

With three different winners from the first three races—Verstappen, Norris, and Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc—the 2025 Formula 1 season is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory. The championship standings are tightly packed, with just one point separating leader Norris and Verstappen, ensuring a thrilling battle lies ahead.

As the teams now prepare for the next round, all eyes will be on whether McLaren can turn their promising pace into victory, or if Red Bull and Ferrari will continue to chip away at their lead.

McLaren fans can continue to show their support for Norris and Piastri by grabbing official team merchandise and representing the team in style throughout what is turning into a spectacular season.