Overview
- Lando Norris leads the standings with Max Verstappen 24 points behind and level with Oscar Piastri, with sprint and grand prix points in Qatar keeping all three in contention for the final two weekends.
- McLaren boss Andrea Stella says both drivers will continue to race freely in Qatar, echoing CEO Zak Brown’s stance against team orders, and Piastri stated he would not serve as a helper.
- Drivers met in Lusail to push for more consistent officiating, with George Russell advocating permanent professional stewards and Carlos Sainz favoring decisions by capable ex-drivers over rigid duel guidelines.
- Both McLarens were disqualified in Las Vegas after post‑race checks found underfloor plates worn below the nine‑millimetre minimum, a rule with no tolerance that erased their points from the event.
- Off-track, BBC reports suggest Aston Martin CEO Andy Cowell could be removed and that Christian Horner is being linked to a leadership role there, signaling potential changes beyond this season.