Drivers Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris had qualified fifth and sixth on the grid, lining up behind cars from Mercedes and Ferrari. However, technical problems emerged shortly before the race start that ultimately forced both McLarens out of the event.

Norris never made it to the grid, as his car remained in the garage due to a power unit-related concern discovered during the pre-race preparations.

Piastri initially took part in the formation procedures, but his car was soon called back to the pit lane by the team. Mechanics attempted to address the issue, yet the repairs could not be completed before the race start. As a result, McLaren recorded a rare double DNS.

After analysing the situation, the team confirmed that the problems affecting the two cars were unrelated. Both were traced to electrical faults connected to the power unit systems.

In a short statement, McLaren admitted the outcome was deeply disappointing but stressed that the focus is now on resolving the issues before the championship moves to the next round in Japan.

Despite failing to start the race in China, McLaren remains third in the constructors’ championship standings.