Breaking: Norris Car Inspection Revealed as FIA Issues R…read more
FIA Still Reviewing Norris’ Car Ahead of Miami GP, McLaren Defends Podium Finish
With the 2025 Miami Grand Prix just around the corner, the fallout from last weekend’s race continues to stir controversy in the Formula 1 world. The FIA has confirmed that Lando Norris’ third-place finish remains provisionally valid pending a final review of his McLaren MCL38, which was flagged during post-race inspections for aerodynamic irregularities.
Inspection Sparks Concern
Norris, who delivered a standout performance to secure his first podium of the season, saw celebrations tempered by a routine technical check that revealed unusual airflow readings around the rear diffuser of his car. According to the FIA, sensor data anomalies prompted a more thorough examination of the McLaren, including a full inspection of the car’s underfloor components.
Sources in the paddock suggest the issue lies in how airflow was channeled beneath the car, possibly hinting at a performance benefit. While no rule violation has been confirmed, the governing body issued a cautionary clause in the official race classification, stating further action could follow if new evidence emerges.
McLaren Responds Confidently
McLaren Team Principal Andrea Stella addressed the growing speculation in a media briefing earlier this week. “We’ve cooperated fully with the FIA, and the findings so far do not indicate any deliberate breach,” Stella said. “We maintain that Lando’s performance was within the regulations and based purely on merit.”
Stella also confirmed that McLaren has submitted additional telemetry and simulation data to support their case and clarify any ambiguity regarding the diffuser’s behavior.
No Change to Results—Yet
For now, the FIA has upheld the finishing order from last weekend’s Grand Prix, with Norris retaining his P3 result behind Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc. However, the “pending further analysis” clause included in the FIA’s statement has sparked speculation that a time penalty or disqualification could still be on the table.
A follow-up report is expected within 72 hours, and the results could have major implications for both McLaren’s Constructors’ Championship hopes and Norris’ individual standings.
Grid Reacts Ahead of Miami
As teams arrive in Florida for the Miami GP, the situation has become a hot topic in the paddock. Red Bull’s Christian Horner commented, “The rules need to be enforced consistently. If there’s a grey area being exploited, that needs to be addressed—but if McLaren is clean, then that’s the end of it.”
Ferrari boss Fred Vasseur echoed that sentiment, stating, “We trust the FIA to apply the rules fairly. Everyone pushes the limits in this sport.”
Some midfield teams, however, are reportedly frustrated, believing similar technical findings on their cars have led to harsher scrutiny in past races.
Norris Staying Focused
Despite the noise, Norris remains composed heading into Miami. “I did my job on track and delivered a strong result,” he told reporters. “The rest is up to the engineers and the FIA. I’m just focused on what’s ahead this weekend.”
Looking Ahead
With the Miami Grand Prix now in focus, all eyes are on the FIA’s next move. If no further issues are found, Norris will officially bank 15 points from the previous race, giving McLaren a vital boost. But if irregularities are deemed to have provided a measurable advantage, penalties could follow—potentially shaking up the grid just as the season begins to heat up in earnest.
