Why did both McLarens retire from the US Grand Prix sprint without points?

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Both McLarens Retired From the US Grand Prix Sprint Due to a First-Corner Collision

Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris, drivers for McLaren, were forced to retire from the US Grand Prix sprint race without scoring points following a multi-car incident at the first corner. The collision began when Sauber driver Nico Hulkenberg made contact with Piastri's car, which then propelled Piastri's McLaren into Norris's vehicle.
Collision Initiated by Contact with Sauber

The incident unfolded at the opening turn of the Circuit of the Americas when Nico Hulkenberg of Sauber collided with Oscar Piastri's McLaren. This initial contact was the catalyst that sent Piastri's car into his teammate, Lando Norris, who was positioned on the front row. The ensuing chaos necessitated the deployment of a safety car due to debris scattered across the track.
Drivers' Perspectives on the Incident

Oscar Piastri described the event as a "racing incident," explaining that visibility at the first corner is limited, making it difficult to account for all variables. He stated that drivers rely on instinct in such situations. Lando Norris, when questioned by reporters, indicated that he did not believe Piastri was at fault, emphasizing that Piastri was the one who was hit first.
Team Management's Initial and Revised Reactions

McLaren boss Zak Brown initially expressed strong criticism, referring to the incident as "amateur-hour driving by some drivers up there at the front." However, after reviewing video replays of the crash, Brown revised his assessment, stating that he could not place blame on Nico Hulkenberg. McLaren's Team Principal, Andrea Stella, later suggested that some drivers with significant experience should have exercised greater prudence in their actions at the first corner.
Precedent of Inter-Team Contact

This incident marked the second consecutive weekend where the two McLaren drivers were involved in contact. In the previous race in Singapore, Lando Norris was considered to be at fault for forcing Oscar Piastri wide, an event that led to discussions regarding potential repercussions within the team.

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Why did both McLarens retire from the US Grand Prix sprint without points?

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