McLaren explain bizarre cause of wretched double DNS

McLaren has shed light on the issues that caused both of its cars to retire before the start of the Chinese Grand Prix on Sunday.

Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris were due to start the race from fifth and sixth, respectively, behind Mercedes and Ferrari.

However, Norris failed to make his way to the grid as a power unit concern kept him in the garage in the build-up to the race.

While Piastri managed to form up in the pre-race preparations, he was quickly whisked away by the McLaren mechanics, who returned his car to the pit lane.

The fixes to both cars could not be completed in time, and the pair were forced into non-starts.

While both issues concerned electrical problems, McLaren confirmed it was two separate problems that caused the failures.

“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,” read a statement from the team.

“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.”

Despite the double DNS, McLaren remains second in the constructors' championship.