What went wrong with McLaren at the 2026 Chinese GP?
What's the story
McLaren's Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri have opened up about the separate pre-race issues that kept them out of the 2026 Chinese Grand Prix. The duo had qualified on the third row, with Piastri in fifth and Norris sixth. However, as the rest of the field lined up on the grid for Sunday's race, problems emerged for both drivers.
Technical difficulties
Here's what happened
While the rest of the grid took their positions, Norris's car stayed in the garage as his crew tried to fix a problem. This raised concerns about whether his machine could be repaired in time for the Grand Prix. Just before the formation lap, Piastri's car was also taken back to the garage, leaving both drivers unable to start on time for Sunday's race.
Disappointment
Second successive non-start for Piastri
This was Piastri's second consecutive non-start, having missed his home event in Australia a week earlier due to a crash on his way to the grid. The 24-year-old called the early exit "disappointing," adding that it was an electrical problem on the power unit, different from Norris's. He said they don't know much more at this point but are obviously disappointed with what happened.
Frustration
Not letting us start the car, says Norris
Norris also spoke to the media after his early departure from the race. He said, "Not a huge amount, honestly - just an issue that's not letting us even start the car." He added that it's frustrating to come all this way and put in a lot of effort only to not start a race at all.
Learning curve
McLaren need to learn from these issues, says Norris
Norris stressed the need for McLaren to learn from these issues, saying they have "just got to take it on the chin." He added that they'd got to learn what the problem was, first of all - two different issues on both of our cars, and make sure it doesn't happen again. Just unlucky, frustrating, but nothing we can do now. We just have to fix the issue and focus on the next one.
Statement
McLaren issue statement after investigation
McLaren issued a statement on X and said "Following investigations into the issues on each car, it was two different electrical problems on the power unit side which caused the double DNS today." "We are racers and naturally gutted we were unable to race, but we will continue to work together as one as we look ahead to Japan. Thanks to the team, and to the fans for your support," the statement added.
Twitter Post
Statement!
Following investigations into the issues on each car, it was two different electrical problems on the power unit side which caused the double DNS today. #McLarenF1 | #ChineseGP 🇨🇳 pic.twitter.com/nKVI0O1Pmc
— McLaren Mastercard Formula 1 Team (@McLarenF1) March 15, 2026
Race
Chinese GP, Kimi Antonelli wins his maiden F1 race
Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli won the 2026 Chinese Grand Prix. The Italian who had earlier entered record books by becoming the youngest pole-sitter in Formula 1, finished the race strongly ahead of teammate George Russell. Scuderia Ferrari's Lewis Hamilton finished third ahead of Charles Leclerc. For the 2nd successive race this season, Mercedes finished one-two to dominate the early phase.
Standings
Driver and Team standings after 2026 Chinese GP
Russell owns 51 points after two GPs, including the sprint. Antonelli isn't far behind and has 47 points. Leclerc (34), Hamilton (33), and Oliver Bearman (17) complete the top 5. Among teams, Mercedes have set an early tone with 98 points under their belt. Ferrari follows suit with 67 points. McLaren (18), Haas (17), and Red Bull Racing (12) complete the top 5.