McLaren Calls for Inquiry into Norris Penalty

McLaren has formally called for an investigation into the penalty handed to Lando Norris during the Qatar Grand Prix, a decision that has intensified scrutiny of the FIA’s decision-making processes.

The British driver received a 10-second stop-and-go penalty—the harshest available short of disqualification—for allegedly ignoring yellow flags. McLaren team principal Andrea Stella criticized the ruling, describing it as disproportionate and lacking nuance.

The penalty cost Norris a potential second-place finish, dropping him to 10th and impacting McLaren’s constructors’ championship prospects. The team’s lead over Ferrari was reduced to 21 points ahead of the final race in Abu Dhabi, where 44 points remain up for grabs.

Stella expressed frustration over the application of the penalty, suggesting a reliance on outdated procedures:

“It feels like someone dusted off an old rulebook and applied it without context. This decision lacked rationality and proportionality.”

His comments reflect broader dissatisfaction within the paddock about the FIA’s recent leadership changes and decision-making.

The controversy comes during a period of upheaval for the FIA. The governing body recently replaced race director Niels Wittich, appointing Rui Marques for the Las Vegas Grand Prix just one race before Qatar. Wittich’s dismissal remains unexplained, and the decision has raised questions about consistency and stability within the organization.

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff joined Stella in questioning the FIA’s approach:

“Rationality needs to prevail. At the moment, it doesn’t seem like it is.”

This shared criticism highlights growing concerns among teams about transparency and fairness in FIA rulings.

McLaren is pushing for a review of the penalty decision, which could influence how race regulations are enforced in the future. Meanwhile, the FIA faces mounting pressure to provide clarity on its recent personnel changes and improve its governance to restore confidence in its leadership.