McLaren Faces Major Setback as FIA Releases Findings from Forensic Investigation at M…read more
In a significant development during the 2025 Formula 1 season, McLaren has been dealt a major blow following the release of a forensic investigation report by the FIA concerning their performance at the Miami Grand Prix. The report, which emerged late Friday evening, confirms that irregularities were found in McLaren’s MCL38 chassis, leading to questions over the car’s compliance with technical regulations.
The FIA investigation, triggered by post-race scrutiny and complaints from rival teams, uncovered what they described as “non-conforming aerodynamic components” that may have provided McLaren with a performance edge during the race. While the team claimed the parts were within design tolerances and previously cleared during pre-race inspections, FIA experts concluded that the components did not adhere to Article 3.5.9 of the technical code.
As a result, the governing body has imposed a 25-point deduction in the Constructors’ Championship standings and disqualified both McLaren drivers from their finishing positions in Miami. This decision dramatically affects McLaren’s campaign, dropping the team from third to fifth place in the standings.
Team Principal Andrea Stella responded to the findings with disappointment: “We are deeply frustrated by this outcome. While we respect the FIA’s authority, we believe the penalty is disproportionate and are evaluating our options, including a formal appeal.”
Rival teams have praised the FIA’s diligence, citing the need for strict enforcement to maintain fair competition.
This incident comes at a critical time, with McLaren showing signs of resurgence after a difficult start to the season. With upcoming races in Imola and Monaco, the team now faces not just a performance challenge, but also a reputational one as it scrambles to recover lost ground.
